Onyango sets Champions League target as Sundowns host Al Hilal

He adds that The Brazilians must make their home matches count ahead of hosting Al Hilal tonight at Loftus Versfeld Stadium with the two sides level on points and both eager to assert control of the group.

Onyango says the target is clear but warns that Sundowns cannot afford any slip-ups on home soil if they are to gain a decisive advantage.

"I think these are exciting times for the boys because it's been a while since they've been on the pitch in terms of Champions League football, but the journey continues. As coach said, there is still a long way to go, but the most important thing is to win our home games."

READ: Mamelodi Sundowns seek group advantage as Al Hilal visit Loftus

Al Hilal have been playing in the Rwandan league due to the instability in their native Sudan, and Onyango believes that’s part of what makes them a threat. 

"What makes it difficult is the hunger they have as a team. You must understand that Al Hilal is a very big team in Sudan, and of course in Africa, because they've been in this competition for a very long time.

"For them to be playing some of their games home away from home pushes them to give some hope and joy to their supporters back home in Sudan." 

Although Sundowns missed out on the title seven months ago by losing to Pyramids in the final, Onyango is confident they have a squad that can still go all the way.