Downs vs Al Ahli through Leon’s eyes: ‘The kind of pressure you want’
by Chad Nagel · KickOffMamelodi Sundowns continue their quest for intercontinental glory this week as they host Asian champions Al Ahli in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, and striker Brayan Leon has given insight on how they will approach the game.
How Brayan Leon is handling the pressure
Despite the stakes of the match, Leon said he did not feel under pressure - in fact, he described himself as ‘very relaxed’. For the Colombian forward, he believes this approach is important.
“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,” he shared during an interview with FIFA, adding that only allowing that intensity to build in the direct run-up to the game provides the ‘spark’ to perform at the top level.
The Sundowns forward said having the backing of the fans was an advantage he could only view as a positive factor, with nearly 50,000 fans expected to show up in Pretoria.
“When your fans are cheering you on, that’s worth more than anything. You have to give the fans credit for that as well. They’re always cheering us on and making sure we know we’re not alone.”
Sundowns preparing for clash against quality side
The clash at Loftus should be a fierce contest, and Leon was quick to acknowledge the firepower of the Saudi Arabian league side, who have the likes of Edouard Mendy, Merih Demiral, Francisco Trincao, and Ivan Toney in their ranks.
“We know the calibre of players they have at their disposal, the strength in depth of their squad, and the level and potential they possess. They’re Asian champions, and we’re African champions. They’ll be thinking about us as well.”
The Tshwane giants could face in the Challenger Cup play-off round - either Mexico’s Toluca, or the winner of the 2026 Copa Libertadores. Leon admitted that facing opposition experienced in navigating finals was ‘mouthwatering’.
“We’d be up against a formidable opponent… Progressing to the next round and facing one of those clubs would be a huge achievement.”
With 18 goals in 35 appearances, Sundowns will need the Colombian forward firing on all cylinders in Pretoria this weekend.