Sundowns & Pirates Triumph in CAFCL – South African Giants Near Semi-Finals
Khaled Hegazy
Dailysports's expert
Mamelodi Sundowns & Orlando Pirates took major steps towards the CAF Champions League semi finals with hard fought 1 - 0 victories in their quarterfinal first leg encounters.
Sundowns Overcome Defensive Espérance
At Loftus Versfeld Stadium Mamelodi Sundowns dominated possession against defensive Espérance de Tunis who barely had 25% possession by the hour mark.
Despite early struggles, Sundowns broke through in the 54 minute with Peter Shalulile finishing off Jayden Adams assist from Lucas Ribeiro cross. The Tunisian side showed little attacking threat with Youcef Belaïli's frustration nearly earning him red card.
Espérance'll now need a strong comeback at home while Sundowns look to finish the job and advance.
Orlando Pirates Stun MC Alger in Algeria
At the Stade du 5 Juillet 1962, Orlando Pirates secured crucial 1 - 0 away win against MC Alger who're currently top of the Algerian league.
The breakthrough came in the 65 minute when substitute Mohau Nkota converted Relebohile Mofokeng setup with brilliant left footed strike.
