Cool head Themba Zwane: 'We are having fun and staying positive'

Sundowns reached Morocco a day behind schedule after awaiting clearance from officials for their chartered flight to touch down in the North African country.

Yet Zwane mentions the squad has handled the delay smoothly as they defend a 1-0 advantage from the initial match in Pretoria, secured by Aubrey Modiba’s spectacular free-kick.

"The journey was lengthy, but spirits are high within the team," Zwane commented. "There’s a buzz among everyone, and we’re motivating each other. We even enjoyed ourselves during the flight, maintaining an upbeat vibe as much as possible.

"Training went well. We rested and prepared adequately, reviewing our opponents beforehand to anticipate their moves. Today focused on our game plan and gently getting back into rhythm post-travel. Despite the lengthy trip, everything has proceeded smoothly."

Zwane stands as the only player remaining from the Sundowns lineup that triumphed over Zamalek in the 2016 Champions League final, fully grasping the significance of such an achievement.

"I often highlight to the younger and newer squad members the enormity of this moment and the joy it can spread nationwide," he noted. "We must challenge ourselves to carve out a legacy. This team has the potential to be celebrated for decades, underscoring the importance of recognizing the weight of this match."

With 81 Champions League appearances for Sundowns, the highest in the team, Zwane hasn’t played this season since the quarterfinal’s first leg against Stade Malien.

His seasoned perspective could prove vital amidst the expected electric atmosphere in Rabat.

Coach Miguel Cardoso acknowledges that determination might outweigh artistry in the return leg.

"We’ll battle to preserve our one-goal lead," Cardoso stated. "A second goal would have better reflected our dominance in the first leg. However, we’ll channel the right energy and tackle the second leg with the seriousness it demands."