Peter Shalulile believes Mamelodi Sundowns have what it takes to go all the way in the CAF Champions League this season, having come so close last year when they were knocked out in the semi-finals.
It was Espérance, whom they currently lead 1-0, who ended their run in the competition last time, and now the two sides are battling it out once again for a spot in the final four.
“It’s possible (to win the Champions League); we just need to be united, work together, push together, and believe because we believe it’s possible to reach our goal. For us, it’s about keeping going, remaining focused, and continuing to believe,” Shalulile said.
Quality teamwork and a clinical finish from Shalulile! 🎯#Sundowns #TotalEnergiesCAFCL #RabatsenaGape pic.twitter.com/nfyoNaNsbG
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) April 2, 2025
The Namibian striker proved his worth once again, scoring the only goal in Sundowns’ 1-0 victory over Espérance in the first leg of their quarter-final clash at Loftus Versfeld.
His 19th goal in the competition since joining the Brazilians from Highlands Park in 2020, Shalulile is once again demonstrating his importance in the club’s pursuit of continental glory.
He has now found the net three times in the current campaign, giving Sundowns the upper hand heading into the second leg in Tunisia. The Namibia captain said he expects the challenge of securing a result in North Africa to be a daunting one.
“It was not an easy game, but I always want to be one of those strikers who gets one chance and buries it. Going to Tunisia won’t be easy, as you saw that they are a good team.”
Admin @Masandawana this guy here displayed true humanity! Despite the chaos and drama at the stadium, his focus was helping an opposition fan!! Find this guy and do right ❤️😎🇿🇦🙌🏻 pic.twitter.com/xpRzt7GU47
— Sir Nungu (@NunguSompisi) April 2, 2025
Sundowns had to be patient against a well-organised Espérance side, but Shalulile’s decisive strike in the second half ensured they take a crucial advantage into the return leg. The goal was a reminder of his incredible ability to deliver in key moments, as he continues to be a reliable source of goals for the Brazilians.
Despite being 31, Shalulile remains one of the fittest and most consistent performers in the Sundowns squad. His energy, movement, and finishing ability have made him one of the most feared strikers on the continent.
He shared some insight into how he maintains his top physical condition throughout the season.
“You need to manage yourself off the pitch and not only when you’re in training. What you eat, what time you sleep, and the recovery you do at home are important,” he said.
“I always tell the guys who ask how I recover, and I tell them that the only thing I do is buy more ice and do recovery. Obviously, I have people who cook for me, so that’s what you do to recover and to manage the whole schedule because you need to be a professional player.”
With their talisman in fine form, Sundowns will travel to Tunisia full of confidence. A disciplined performance in the second leg will see them book a place in the semi-finals and take them one step closer to achieving Shalulile’s Champions League dream.