In a performance that sent shockwaves through African football, Mamelodi Sundowns delivered a ruthless 5-1 demolition of Nigeria’s Remo Stars at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, on Sunday, in the CAF Champions League second round first leg clash.

 

The victory not only left the home crowd in stunned silence but etched its name into history as the worst-ever home defeat by a Nigerian club in any CAF competition — a humbling moment for Remo and a powerful warning from the South African champions.

 Match Summary

• Scoreline: Remo Stars 1–5 Mamelodi Sundowns

• Venue: MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta, Nigeria

• Competition: CAF Champions League – Second Round (First Leg)

• Date: Sunday, October 20, 2025

 How It Happened: A Tactical Masterclass from Sundowns

 

Remo Stars started brightly, buoyed by a lively home crowd and early efforts from Adama Goita and Victor Mbaoma, but their promise quickly unraveled as Neo Maema and Lesiba Nku combined beautifully to set up Thapelo Maseko for the opener in the 12th minute.

 

From there, Sundowns took control, exposing Remo’s defensive fragility. Peter Shalulile made it 2-0 before the break, capitalizing on yet another defensive slip.

 

The second half was even more punishing:

• Miguel Reinildo (61’) slotted in the third after a surging run by Khuliso Mudau.

• Arthur Sales (75’) tapped in the fourth following a fluid team move.

• Samson Olasupo (77’) briefly lifted Remo fans with a fine individual goal.

• Tsiki Nsabeleng (87’), a South African-Nigerian, sealed the historic rout with a late strike.

 

This defeat marks:

• First time a Nigerian club has conceded five goals at home in a CAF competition.

• Remo Stars’ heaviest ever continental defeat.

• Sundowns’ biggest win on Nigerian soil.

 

Despite fighting displays from Mbaoma, Goita, and Olasupo, the hosts’ backline collapsed under Sundowns’ relentless pressure and tactical superiority.

• For Remo Stars:

A four-goal mountain awaits them in the return leg in Pretoria on October 26. Their dream of reaching the CAF Champions League group stage now hangs by a thread.

• For Mamelodi Sundowns:

The victory is a massive confidence boost and a reminder of their continental pedigree. After modest returns in previous visits to Nigeria, they’ve now made a statement of serious intent.

• Daniel Ogunmodede (Remo Stars Coach):

“We’ve been taught a hard lesson. We must reflect, regroup, and prepare with dignity for the second leg.”

• Rulani Mokwena (Sundowns Coach):

“I’m proud of the team. We played with intelligence and intensity. It’s a step toward our goals this season.”

• Return Leg: October 26, 2025

• Venue: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria, South Africa

• Remo Stars must produce a CAF miracle to overturn the deficit.

This wasn’t just a win — it was a statement of power and preparation from Mamelodi Sundowns. For Remo Stars, it was a brutal wake-up call to the demands of elite continental football.

 

The return leg may be a formality, but pride and future experience are still on the line.