Remo Stars SC swept aside Comorian outfit Zilimadjou 5-0 on aggregate to book their place in the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League, where they will face last season’s finalists, Mamelodi Sundowns.
In the first leg, Remo Stars cruised to 4-0 win at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.
Goals came from Leonard Ngenge, Ebuka Antony, Adama Goita, and Samson Olasupo.
However, in the second leg, a solitary Alex Oyowah’s strike was the deciding factor, sealing a 1-0 win and completing a clean sweep of the tie.
The next round presents a massive challenge for the Nigerian champions, as they face Mamelodi Sundowns, one of the continent’s most formidable teams.
Mamelodi Sundowns are clear favourites going into the tie, following an impressive run to the CAF Champions League final last season.
Along the way, Sundowns eliminated 12-time champions Al Ahly in the semi-finals, ES Tunis in the quarter-finals, and Raja Casablanca in the group stage.
Their dominance was also on display at the FIFA Club World Cup, where they earned four points in the group stage drawing with Palmeiras after a resilient performance and pushing Borussia Dortmund to the edge in a thrilling 4-3 defeat.
With their depth, experience, and big-stage pedigree, Sundowns will be a huge test for a Remo Stars side that has never featured in the CAF Champions League group stages.
This encounter will mark the first-ever meeting between the two clubs.
While Sundowns remain favourites, recent form could give Remo Stars a glimmer of hope.
The South African champions have managed only five wins in their last eleven games, suggesting a dip in form.
Meanwhile, Remo Stars have started their campaign strongly, winning four of their opening six games this season.
Crucially, the first leg will be played in Abeokuta on October 17th, and the Sky Blue will need to capitalize on their home advantage.
A poor result at home could leave them facing a mountain to climb in the return leg in Pretoria, where Sundowns hardly loses.
