The Loftus Mandate: Adams Believes First-Leg Goals Hold Keys To Sundowns’ Continental Redemption
Jayden Adams has emphasised the importance of Mamelodi Sundowns making the most of their home advantage ahead of their CAF Champions League final clash against AS FAR.
Sundowns will host the Moroccan giants in the first leg of the final at a sold-out Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday. The match marks Adams’ second CAF Champions League final since joining the Brazilians.
Sundowns are currently unbeaten at home in their last 14 CAF Champions League matches in Pretoria, keeping clean sheets in 10 of those encounters.
It has been nearly a decade since Sundowns last lifted the continental title in 2016, with the club having fallen short in several recent campaigns. The final presents another opportunity for Masandawana to reclaim African football’s biggest prize after narrowly missing out in last season’s final against Pyramids FC.
The former Stellenbosch FC midfielder highlighted the importance of capitalising on chances at home, acknowledging how difficult it can be to secure results away against North African opposition.
“I think, as a team, we need to be better in our home games,” said Adams.
“I think we need to score more goals at home because when you go away, it is always difficult. You know North African teams are very difficult to beat on their home ground.
“But I think what we can do is continue playing our football, scoring goals, and sticking to our style of play.”
Adams, who missed Sundowns’ last two league matches due to suspension following a red card, also revealed that the squad is approaching the final with confidence rather than nerves.
“I don’t think there are nerves right now, but maybe closer to kick-off there will be a few nerves,” Adams explained.
“Last season was my first final, and it was a massive achievement for me personally. I was nervous then, but I think the nerves disappeared after the first 10 minutes of the game.
“This year, I think we are ready for it.”
Meanwhile, the Brazilians have already concluded their Betway Premiership campaign, allowing them to shift their full focus to the Champions League final.
