Mdunyelwa Issues “Do or Die” Warning For CAF Semifinal

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Zuko Mdunyelwa warns the CAF Champions League semifinal is “not done” despite a 1-0 lead over ES Tunis.

Sundowns host the second leg at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, eyeing their first final since 2016.

Sundowns head into the decisive encounter with a lead after securing a valuable away victory in Tunisia last Sunday — a result that gives them a slight edge heading into the return leg.

The Brazilians not only claimed the win but also ensured they carry an away-goal advantage, placing them in a strong yet still vulnerable position.

However, the Tshwane giants are fully aware that the tie is far from settled, especially against an Espérance side that will be determined to overturn the deficit.

The Tunisian club will also be motivated by memories of last season, when Sundowns eliminated them in the quarter-finals, adding extra incentive for revenge.

Reflecting on the first-leg result, Mdunyelwa stressed that the job is only half done, with the real test coming in the second leg at home.

“The message among the players is clear — the assignment is not finished yet,” he said.

“That away game was just the first half for us. The second half will be on Saturday, and that’s where we need to be especially careful.”

The 26-year-old added that Sundowns expect an aggressive approach from Espérance, given the high stakes for both teams.

“We expect them to come at us because it’s do or die for them — and for us as well,” he said.

“But playing at home gives us an advantage.

“We are an attacking team, and if they come at us, they will leave spaces. That suits us, because we thrive in open games.”

With a place in the final at stake, Sundowns will be aiming to stay composed, avoid complacency, and make full use of their home advantage to complete the job against a determined Espérance side.