Led by joint coaches Manqoba Mnqithi, Rhulani Mokwena and backed by Steve Khompela, Sundowns made a positive start in their CAF Champions League Group A by beating Al Hilal of Sudan 1-0 at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium in Rustenburg.
AFCON winner John Tlale believes African clubs are now becoming more worried about Sundowns as they do each time they have to face Al Ahly.
"To them and Al Ahly, it can go either way. Pitso knows how Sundowns plays, and they all know how Pitso operates. So it works for both sides.
"The position one and two I will give them to Sundowns and Al Ahly.
"They are always seen as favourites because they are in there every year. Sundowns are lifting the league every year so, they are not even celebrating their wins here at home anymore. It's a normal thing for them now.
"So I think that's what brings fear to the other teams from Africa because they know every year Sundowns is there. Look at Al Ahly, they didn't win the league last year, but Sundowns did.
"That's what makes these teams like Al Hilal focus more on Sundowns.
"Sundowns are now at Al Ahly's level, and I can say that with confidence. Them signing young quality players like Teboho Mokoena tells you the scouts know what they are doing."