NEWS: Thapelo Morena: Sundowns will embrace hostile Esperance atmosphere

Recalling the last time the team played in the North African country – a game in 2017 that ended goalless, Morena explained that he expects an intense reception but that Sundowns will focus on their own game prior to their return leg at home.

The two sides will lock horns at the Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi on Saturday.

Ahead of the tie, a confident Morena explained: “I think it’s one of the best crowds I have played in front of because it’s not my first time being Tunisia playing against Esperance.

“I think this season will be way better than the last time I was here in Tunis. It will be a great atmosphere with the flames and fireworks from the stands. Our mindset is a bit different especially when we play away in the Champions League.

“We know how passionate they are about supporting their team, especially at home. With Al-Ahly, Wydad, and the last time I was here, it ranks first and second. The atmosphere is something else but we just want to play our normal game as Sundowns and do our best.”

On the game itself, the player added: “I think the first few minutes they are going to come out guns blazing because they are also playing at home. 

“They are going to go mostly on the sides. I think we just need to try to close the sides and force them inside where we have numbers.”