Mamelodi Sundowns braced for Tunis test as Arthur Sales urges calm

The Brazilians are in Tunisia for their CAF Champions League semifinal first leg, aiming to secure an advantage ahead of the return fixture at Loftus Versfeld next weekend. 

Sales admits maintaining that focus will not be easy but believes discipline and composure will be crucial if they are to gain the upper hand. 

"We try to focus on the game and we forget [what is happening] outside – I know it's difficult play [away] but you need adaptation and to improve the level," said Sales.

"I don't know, last year was also difficult for us – every time we play against Esperance it's a difficult match, so when we arrive in this part of the competition, everyone's quality is too high."

The Brazilians forward added that the clash will be decided by fine margins. 

"Yeah, both teams have quality – it's difficult, the game comes down to details, there are more things [to stay focused on], so you must keep the concentration high," he added.

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"I think this will decide the game – I think Esperance is a good team but we also have quality on our side, so the game is [going to be played] at a high level."

The reigning South African champions did get the better of Esperance in last season’s quarterfinals, but Sales dismissed the notion that this gives them an edge. 

"Because we played against them last year, we know what to expect, but as a professional player you need to adapt, and I think every game is different, so no [edge].

"Imagine the difference from one year ago, so we need to make new history in a new game," he concluded.