Heading into the deciding CAF Champions League semi-finals, a former Mamelodi Sundowns striker says it is the North African teams that are afraid of Miguel Cardoso's team, not the other way around.
Sundowns face a challenging task at the 75 000-capacity Cairo International Stadium in Egypt against Al Ahly for the second leg of the Champions League semi-final on Friday.
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The two teams played to a 0-0 stalemate in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium last weekend.
"Sundowns have proven themselves already. I don’t know what has changed. Why wouldn’t these North African teams be afraid of Sundowns?
"Sundowns have always surpassed expectations. They still look fantastic and organised, and going forward, they are enjoyable to watch," says Kenny Niemach.
He also defended head coach Miguel Cardoso, whose style of play has yet to win over some club legends and even fans.
"I don't think they’re playing differently than before. Nothing has changed since he took over.
"Some people may view it from a personal perspective because someone they preferred is no longer there. You know how people can take things personally.
"If Cardoso wasn’t performing, Sundowns have the resources to change coaches. Even if he doesn’t win this Champions League, I don’t think they will rush to make a change.
"The Champions League is very challenging. The level of football is two or three notches above our domestic league. The players are quicker and stronger, and you can see the ball movement," he explains.
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Niemach, who also played for Kaizer Chiefs, believes the Chloorkop-based outfit will reach the final.
"I played against Al Ahly twice and lost both times, and I never got a chance to play.
"I also joined Chiefs, where Muhsin Ertugral played all the youngsters, and we were hammered 3-0 in the first half [laughs]. Al Ahly are technically superior, quicker in decision-making, and their delivery is precise."
