Mamelodi Sundowns Dominate Remo Stars with a 5-1 Triumph in Abeokuta Clash
Representing Nigeria in the CAF Champions League, Remo Stars suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat at the hands of South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns during the first leg of their second-round tie held on Sunday at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta.
Remo Stars vs Mamelodi Sundowns:
Sundowns Take Control Early and Maintain Pressure
Right from the kickoff, the visitors from South Africa imposed their superiority, heading into the break with a comfortable 2-0 lead courtesy of strikes from Tashreeq Matthews and Peter Shalulile.
After the interval, Mamelodi Sundowns continued to press relentlessly, with Miguel Reisinho adding a third goal in the 60th minute. Later in the match, substitutes Arthur De Oliveira and Katlego Ntsabeleng contributed goals in the 74th and 84th minutes, respectively, sealing a dominant win for the South African side.
Despite the heavy defeat, Remo Stars managed to lift the spirits of their fans when Samson Olasupo scored a spectacular long-range goal in the 76th minute, providing a rare highlight for the home crowd.
Perspectives from Osasu Obayiuwana
Nigerian sports analyst based in the UK, Osasu Obayiuwana, expressed his disappointment over the ongoing struggles of NPFL clubs in continental tournaments.
“After witnessing @RemoStarsSC’s 5-1 loss to @Masandawana on home ground, is it finally time for supporters of @NigeriaPFL to accept that NPFL teams are falling short in quality and find it difficult to compete in the #CAFCL & #CAFCC?” Obayiuwana posted on Twitter.
He added, “How many times must this harsh truth be repeated?”
Remo Stars Set Sights on a Strong Response
Facing a significant four-goal gap, head coach Daniel Ogunmodede and his players remain optimistic about overturning the deficit in the return leg, which is slated for next weekend at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.