CAF Champions League

“We have to forget CAF CL” – Maema

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Neo Maema of Mamelodi Sundowns during the CAF Champions League 2024/25 Final 1st Leg match between Mamelodi Sundowns and Pyramids FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, on 24 May 2025 ©Phakamisa Lensman/BackpagePix

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Neo Maema has urged his side to put their CAF Champions League disappointment behind them and focus on the FIFA Club World Cup.

Sundowns were unable to secure their second star in the continental competition after they suffered a 3-2 aggregate defeat to Pyramids FC in the final two weeks ago.

The Brazilians will look to bounce back when they face Ulsan in their opening Club World Cup Group F clash at the Inter & Co Stadium on June 18.

Maema admits he is heartbroken by the outcome of the Champions League, but he is ready to put it behind him and focus on showcasing his talent on a global stage.

“It’s a pain in the heart, but we have to forget it [the Champions League final heartache],” Maema said.

“It’s another adventure, it’s a new experience … we’re playing against the best clubs around the world, so we’re looking forward to that and making sure that we let this one [the Champions League final agony] pass.”

“It’s a pain in the heart, but we have to forget it [the Champions League final heartache].

“It’s another adventure, it’s a new experience … we’re playing against the best clubs around the world, so we’re looking forward to that and making sure that we let this one [the Champions League final agony] pass.”