Midfielder Bongani Zungu has opened-up on playing the unfamiliar role of centre-back as Mamelodi Sundowns qualified for the knockout stages of the CAF Champions League.
Sundowns registered a 2-0 win over Nouadhibou thanks to goals from Grant Kekana and Thembinkosi Lorch on Saturday.
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Speaking to Sundowns media after the match, Zungu reflected on the match and what it took to overcome the unfavourable conditions.
"From our side it wasn't very good game, but we played under difficult situation, you know the pitch, the weather,” Zungu said via the club's media department.
"So, credit to the boys, you know we gave a good fight, we kept a clean sheet and I thought it was a very good game from the from the first minute until the last, we controlled the game and everyone was giving their best.
"The coach always emphasizes that that every game we played we have to win. Obviously, you know for us for us it was not about concentrating on the other teams and what they're doing you know for us just to concentrate on getting the maximum points today.
Much to supporters surprise, for the second consecutive match, Zungu was deployed at centre-back. The midfielder, who throughout his career has played an attacking midfielder, winger and central midfielder, explained his new role at Sundowns.
"The coach always tells us that nobody has a position at Sundowns so my role you know, is centre-back, but my job is also to overload in the midfield.
?? C???? C???????????????? ???????????? ??Mamelodi Sundowns registered a 2??0? victory against FC Nouadhibou in their #TotalEnergiesCAFCL clash! #SABCSportFootball #CAFCL pic.twitter.com/G9zgVmGbqy
— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) February 24, 2024
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The Brazilians suffered a heartbreaking exit in the CAF Champions League last season when they were knocked via the away goals rule after a 2-2 draw against Wydad at Loftus Versfeld. Zungu believes the team has what it takes to lift the title this time around.
"We have the players to go all the way," Zungu said.
"I think last year's competition, you know a lot, you know. So now we've got that experience. You know you can see on the pass from David. They were unbelievable, you've got the capacity to try and challenge for this competition.
Sundowns now turn their attention back to the DStv Premiership where they take on AmaZulu on Tuesday evening at Loftus Stadium.
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