“We Are Going To Sweat Blood” — Morena
Mamelodi Sundowns defender Thapelo Morena has urged his teammates to give everything on the pitch as they prepare for Friday’s CAF Champions League second preliminary round second-leg clash against Angolan side Wiliete at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
The two sides played out a goalless draw in Angola on Sunday, with the Brazilians struggling to impose themselves on the game as they managed just three shots on target throughout the match.
With a place in the Champions League group stage at stake, Morena believes Sundowns have reached a point where they must focus on delivering on the pitch rather than dwelling on missed opportunities.
“I think we have passed the stage where we speak about knowing how to deal with the moments. Now we are at the stage of giving everything to the team because we have already passed the stage of ‘we might have’ and ‘we could have’,” he said.
“The point that we got, we know how important it is and what we need to do here at home. The possibility of doing it is very clear, and we know that we’re going to give our best in the game on Friday.
“The training session on Wednesday went very well, and the things that we identified as areas for improvement after the previous game are what we’ve been working on.”
The winner of Friday’s encounter will secure a place in the Champions League group stage, with Sundowns also looking to defend the continental title they won last season.
Morena, who has recently been enjoying more game time, also expressed his delight at returning to regular action and contributing to the team after an injury setback.
“To be honest, I am very happy. Every player wants to come back from a setback, get minutes on the pitch and help the team,” said Morena, who missed the FIFA World Cup with Bafana Bafana because of injury.
“I am grateful to be playing and contributing to the team again. I am always willing to give everything for this badge because of what it has done for me. It means something big and special to me.
“Going into Friday’s game, we are going to give everything on the pitch. We are going to sweat blood, and no matter what happens, we are going to get through.”
The 33-year-old’s determination underlines the importance of the fixture for the Brazilians, who will look to make home advantage count and secure their place in the group stage as they continue their bid to retain the Champions League crown.
