Mamelodi Sundowns March into CAF Champions League Semi-Finals, Set to Face Al Ahly

Mamelodi Sundowns, led by coach Miguel Cardoso have once again cemented their status as African football royalty after a dominant performance over Tunisian giants Espérance Sportive de Tunis saw them book a place in the CAF Champions League semi-finals. The Brazilians will now turn their attention to a blockbuster clash against reigning champions Al Ahly of Egypt. The victory was not easy for Sundowns, but they leaned on their coach’s expertise since he is the ex-Espérance coach.

“It was a not easy match, but I didn’t expect it also to be easier when you at the level game you had to play against which team we were playing.” said Cardoso after the match.

In a tie that was expected to test the mettle of Miguel Cardoso’s men, Sundowns delivered a composed and clinical display over two legs. The South African champions secured the aggregate win with a blend of tactical discipline, flair, and sheer willpower. Their defensive structure stifled Espérance’s attacking threats, while their ability to transition into attack with speed and precision was a nightmare for the Tunisian backline that saw them win 1-0 on aggregate.

The standout performance came in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld on Tuesday 1 April 2025, where a passionate home crowd witnessed a masterclass from the likes of Teboho Mokoena, Marcelo Allende, and the ever-reliable Ronwen Williams in goal. The victory not only sent a message to the rest of the continent but also marked Sundowns’ growing consistency at the highest level of African club football.

With Espérance now behind them, the road to glory gets even tougher. Awaiting Sundowns in the semi-finals is Al Ahly, the record 12-time CAF Champions League winners and defending champions. The two sides have developed a fierce rivalry in recent years, with several memorable encounters that have captivated fans across the continent.

Al Ahly FC and Mamelodi Sundowns played 13 matches since 2007. Among them, Al Ahly FC won 4 games, Mamelodi Sundowns won 5 and drew 4. The much anticipated match will see the two giants logging horns in the 1st semi final leg in South Africa followed by the second leg in Cairo. Dates, Time and Venues to be confirmed