CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Rulani Mokwena salutes “incredible effort” as Mamelodi Sundowns cruise to knockout stages

The Brazilians secured top spot on Group A with a 2-0 win over Nouadhibou on Saturday to secure their progression to the next round of the continental competition with one match to play.

Goals from Grant Kekana (21′) and Thembinkosi Lorch (90+1) sealed the result for Mokwena’s side, leaving them on 10 points from five games, and second place TP Mazembe also on 10 points.

Nouadhibou are in third with four points and Pyramids prop up the group with four points.

Reflecting on the win, a delighted Brazilians boss said: “Our players put in an incredible effort and delivered a great performance, controlling chances in both the first and second half. The subs were also fantastic and brought good energy to the pitch.”

Mokwena added: “I want to extend my gratitude to our opponents for being very competitive and to the people of Nouadhibou for their warm hospitality and treatment during our stay in Mauritania.

“We commend our opponents for being a difficult team. We knew coming here that having not lost in the group stages at home, in the league for 12 games, it was certainly not an easy feat to come here and secure this victory, and so big compliments to our squad and the entire football club.”