Unbeaten in 7 vs Al Ahly, Can Sundowns Reach CAF Champions League Final?
Khaled Hegazy
Dailysports's expert
Mamelodi Sundowns shift their focus to continental glory as they host Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League semi-final first leg on Saturday at Loftus Versfeld Stadium (3pm kick-off). With a spot in the final up for grabs, this heavyweight clash is set to define the season for both sides.
History and Motivation
Sundowns are aiming for their first final since 2016, the year they won their maiden Champions League crown under Pitso Mosimane. Under current boss Miguel Cardoso, the club seeks redemption after narrow exits in the last two editions. Having gone unbeaten in their last seven games against Al Ahly, the South African champions enter the tie with quiet confidence.
“Every match is a cup final,” said former captain Hlompho Kekana, urging the team to bounce back after their shock 2-1 defeat to Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup semis.
“Mistakes cost us, but this squad knows how to respond. The Champions League is the real prize now.”
Al Ahly Eyeing History of Their Own
Al Ahly, the 12-time African champions, are looking to make history by winning an unprecedented third consecutive CAF Champions League title. The Red Devils eliminated Al Hilal in the quarter-finals (2-0 on aggregate) and are preparing for a high-stakes trip to Pretoria, followed by the second leg in Cairo on April 25.
In a major boost, Egyptian authorities have approved full capacity (67,000 fans) for the return leg at Cairo International Stadium — a rarity in continental play and a clear advantage for Marcel Koller’s side.
Despite their pedigree, Ahly haven’t beaten Sundowns in their last seven meetings, a stat that will add pressure heading into the clash.
Talking Points and Selection Doubts
Al Ahly legend Hesham Hanafy has voiced concerns over the team’s recent form, while affirming their potential to lift the trophy:
“Performance aside, this team knows how to win. But questions remain — especially about Maaloul’s exclusion from the trip.”
Speculation about Pitso Mosimane’s return to Al Ahly has also surfaced, though Hanafy dismissed it as mere “club chatter”.
