Editor Note: This article is translated from the original written in French by Pan-Africa Football's Omar Chraibi
On the eve of a crucial clash against Mamelodi Sundowns, Raja Casablanca team coach Ricardo Sá Pinto held a press conference which revealed both the complexity of the challenge and the steely determination of his men.
In full preparation for this match on the 3rd day of the CAF Champions League, the stakes are high and the group seems more united than ever.
Training at a high altitude, with temperatures around 33 to 34 degrees, is not trivial for the team. As Ricardo Sá Pinto pointed out, this unusual context represented a real challenge: “We trained daily on a natural grass pitch, in a climate very different from what we usually experience. But the experience gained during our first meeting against Maniema allowed us to adapt better."
These extreme conditions forced the team to acclimatize quickly. But far from being an obstacle, they have forged careful preparation to counter a Sundowns team renowned for its solidity and tactical mastery.
Sundowns, a true juggernaut of African football, represents a major test. Ricardo Sá Pinto did not fail to highlight the quality of the opposing squad: “Sundowns are a team that likes to play on the ball, with high quality players like (Iqraam) Rayners and (Marcelo) Allende, capable of making the difference at any time. Their collective is impressive, and their ability to maintain possession makes them a formidable opponent."
The Portuguese coach is, however, far from being pessimistic. Knowing his counterpart Miguel Cardoso well, he highlighted the subtleties of the South African style: “Miguel has a clear playing philosophy. He likes possession and playing from the back. We have studied their last matches and identified key aspects on which we can act."
If the task promises to be difficult, Sá Pinto remains convinced of the ability of his players to meet the challenge. The objective is clear: bring home the three points. The coach made it a mission for his group: “We are here to fight, to prove that we deserve our place at the highest level. Every player knows the importance of this match and is ready to give their all on the pitch."
He adds: “We will have to remain disciplined, focused and united. Sundowns like to dominate, but we have our strengths and we will be able to impose our game when necessary. The most important thing will be to win the small duels, to stay organized and to seize every opportunity."
Beyond tactics, Sá Pinto insisted on the importance of team spirit and combativeness in these types of matches: “Each player is ready to sacrifice himself for his teammates. We know that we have a responsibility towards our supporters, who expect from us a performance worthy of our club. Now is the time to show our character."
As kickoff approaches, the team looks more focused and prepared than ever. The match against Mamelodi Sundowns will be a real test of truth, not only for the players, but also for the work put in place by Ricardo Sá Pinto since his arrival.
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