Raja Casablanca vs Mamelodi Sundowns Prediction: The Brazilians will at least secure a point in this highly competitive game

The stage is set for one of the toughest games of the round as Moroccan heavyweight Raja Casablanca square off against South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns at the Stade Larbi Zaouli Stadium on Saturday. In one of the strongest groups, every goal and point counts, and Raja Casablanca can’t afford to slow down against the Brazilians to avoid not finishing in the top two spots on the log.

Raja Casablanca (Morocco)

Last three games: LDL

The Green Eagles' woes continued in this tournament as they were narrowly beaten by Mamelodi Sundowns on the road. In a game where they had no shots at goal and only 37% of the ball, Raja Casablanca were extremely poor. They were lucky to have conceded just once, as they were overwhelmed by their opponent. 

After their disappointing run in the continental competition, Raja Casablanca cut ties with Ricardo Sa Pinto as Hafid Abdessadek took over. 

The Green Eagles, who won the Botola Pro title by just a point, are having a poor campaign. 

Raja Casablanca still remain a top team regardless of their recent woes and we hope to see a new look side in this competition tomorrow. 

Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa)

Last three games: DDW

The Brazilians have been pretty solid defensively in recent games but not in front of goal. They have won four consecutive games, keeping four clean sheets. However, that’s not enough for a team who scored fifty league goals in the previous campaign. 

Mamelodi Sundowns began their CAF Champions League campaign with a toothless stalemate against Maniema Union at home, settled for a (1-1) tie against AS FAR Rabat, and won narrowly against Raja Casablanca. 

Mamelodi Sundowns are one of the best teams in Africa; they’ve won the CAF Champions League once and have made it out of the group stage in five consecutive seasons. Mamelodi Sundowns have not been convincing enough on the road but they stand a better chance against a struggling opposition tomorrow. 

Expert Betting Tips

The reverse leg ended in a slim (1-0) victory for Mamelodi Sundowns as they had 63% of the ball and denied Raja Casablanca a shot at goal. The guests have been nothing short of disappointing this campaign as they match here with back-to-back losses in their domestic league.

Raja Casablanca have been abysmal at the back and rarely converts their chances against a top opponent. They are known for their high press and rapid counterattacking game. However, they face off against a similar opponent who are a possession-based team and very quick in transition. 

This game will likely deny us goals, given Mamelodi Sundown's tactical discipline and solid defensive performance in recent games. Even though the atmosphere of the Stade Larbi Zaouli Stadium might be a bit hostile, the guests are used to games of this caliber. 

Both teams have not been convincing enough for me; however, Mamelodi Sundown's new coach has a way of getting things done, especially with his defensive prowess. I will settle for a win or draw and under 2.5 goals for the Brazilians, who will literally dominate but create few chances.

This encounter might end in a halftime share of the spoils as both teams will be careful not to go down first.

I expect the game to be more open after the break, with a goal at least surfacing. 

Good luck!