Mind games or real fear? Esperance star wary of ‘African monsters’ Sundowns

Esperance defender Mohamed Drager has lauded Mamelodi Sundowns as one of the continent’s top teams ahead of their decisive CAF Champions League semi-final clash in Pretoria this Saturday.

The South African side carries a narrow 1-0 lead into the second leg, courtesy of a Brayan León header in the first encounter. The upcoming match is a high-stakes affair, with a place in the final on the line.

This fixture marks the sixth time the two clubs have met in the last three seasons, with the historical record evenly poised at two wins each and one draw.

Esperance star lauds ‘big team’ Sundowns

Esperance previously knocked Sundowns out in the 2023/24 season, but the Brazilians returned the favour the following year, setting the stage for another intense battle.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Drager expressed his deep respect for the South African champions, highlighting their formidable quality.

“I respect them in every position, on every corner,” the 29-year-old stated as quoted by Soccer Laduma. “It’s a big team, especially at home, like a big force. A very dynamic team, very tactically and technically prepared by the coach and the whole staff.”

Are the PSL champions an African monster?

The defender emphasised the significance of the occasion, acknowledging the calibre of teams remaining in the competition.

“It’s a semi-final of the Champions League,” he continued. “Everyone who’s facing each other now is facing basically one of the monsters in Africa. So we face a monster of Africa, not the monster.”

Esperance is scheduled to hold a final training session at the match venue on Friday evening to complete their preparations for the do-or-die clash.