Mamelodi Sundowns forward Brayan Leon says he embraces pressure ahead of their FIFA Intercontinental Cup clash against Al-Ahli on Saturday.

The Brazilians will take on the Saudi side in the second round when they meet at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday.

Sundowns boomed their place in the Intercontinental Cup after they lifted the CAF Champions League title last season.

The Colombian believes the nerves and intensity should build naturally as matchday approaches, providing the spark needed to produce a top-level performance.

“Personally, I’m feeling very relaxed about it. No pressure whatsoever,” Leon told the FIFA official website.

“That’s how you need to approach these types of games. We don’t need to put ourselves under any pressure.

“That feeling will come when we’re a day away, or when we’re on our way to the stadium. That’s the kind of pressure you want, that spark to fire you up. When it’s a final, that’s how you have to approach it.

“As far as I’m concerned, every game should be played with that same spark. You should feel pressure, but only in the run-up to the game.

“Without it, it’s very difficult to perform to the best of your ability.”