Sundowns got Angola’s Petro all figured out | African News

Mamelodi Sundowns co-coach Rulani Mokwena has stated that they have already done their homework on their Caf Champions League quarterfinal opponent Petro Atlético de Luanda from Angola.

On Tuesday afternoon, the Tshwane giants are pitted against Angola’s Petro, confirmed in a live draw held at Caf headquarters in Cairo, Egypt.

“Petro are a very good side with good Champions League experience. They’ve been here for three seasons in a row,” said Mokwena.

“It’s their first time in the quarterfinals, but what we’ve seen in the group is that they are a very capable team. They’ve scored nine and conceded eight.

“To accumulate 11 points in a difficult group for them means they are an excellent team, and they are sitting on top of the log in Angola – with 51 points from 21 games – and currently are the reigning Cup champions.

“Prior to getting there, we still have some important matches in the domestic league and an important Nedbank cup game.”

The Angolan giants booked a place in the next round of the Champions League continental competition after finishing off in second place in Group D with 11 points.

The Brazilians have met Petro before in the Champions League, with mixed results, including a home win for Downs and a draw away.

“We have been in the same group before], but this is the Champions League, past results count for absolutely nothing, history speaks about what has happened, the future speaks to what could happen,” added Mokwena.

Petro of Luanda will host the first leg of the quarter-final tie against the Bafana Ba Style in Angola before the return leg at home for the Tshwane giants.

“We’ll still do our research, but the distance and proximity allow for a shorter flight and from a physiological perspective that assists the players. Of course, with easier travel, it becomes easier to work on match specific preparation, with regards to work on and off the pitch – that’s where the big advantage is.”

The first legs of the Champions League quarters are scheduled to take place on April 15 and 16 and return second legs on April 22 and 23.

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