Mamelodi Sundowns put on a clinical show to beat Remo Stars 5–1 in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie at the M.K.O. Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.
Tashreeq Matthews opened the scoring in the 12th minute, and Peter Shalulile doubled the lead just before half-time with a composed finish.
Miguel Reisinho made it 3–0 early in the second half, and although Samson Olasupo pulled one back for Remo Stars in the 77th minute, substitutes Arthur Sales and Katlego Ntsabeleng added late goals to complete a crushing away victory for the South African champions.
Sundowns dominated from start to finish. Their quick passing, tight pressing and superior positional play repeatedly tore holes in Remo Stars’ shape, forcing the Nigerian side into a reactive game.
Remo’s best moments came from set pieces and a brief second-half rally, but they could not sustain pressure against a team used to controlling matches at continental level.
The result leaves Sundowns with a commanding 5–1 advantage heading into the return leg in Tshwane on October 26, and they look well placed to reach the Champions League group stage.
For Remo Stars, the heavy home defeat raises immediate questions about preparation, defensive organisation and the gulf in resources between elite African clubs and many NPFL sides.
