Mamelodi Sundowns eye historic final as they prepare for Al Ahly showdown in Cairo

COMMENT

Mamelodi Sundowns are in a stronger position than their 0–0 draw in the first leg suggests, as they prepare to face Al Ahly in the second leg of the CAF Champions League semi-finals at the Cairo International Stadium on Friday (kick-off 18:00).

While Al Ahly currently reign as champions of Africa and will be determined to defend their crown, Sundowns continue their pursuit of continental glory. After falling at the semi-final stage in the last two seasons, this could be their best chance yet to write another iconic chapter in their impressive journey.

Sundowns secured a third consecutive semi-final berth after narrowly overcoming Esperance de Tunis with a 1–0 aggregate win. Their path to the final began in front of an enthusiastic home crowd at Loftus Versfeld — a ground that has become a fortress for the team.

Though it’s a place of pride for Sundowns, it’s also proven to be a graveyard for visiting teams, with the reigning league champions now gunning for an unprecedented eighth consecutive domestic title.

In the first leg against Al Ahly, much more was expected from the Brazilians — particularly given their dominant 5–2 victory over the Egyptians in the 2023 group stage, followed by a 2–2 draw in the return leg at Al-Salam Stadium in Cairo.

That crushing defeat in the 2022/23 season wasn’t the first time Al Ahly have been on the receiving end of Sundowns' firepower. Back in 2018/19, a Pitso Mosimane-led Sundowns stunned the Egyptian side with a 5–0 first-leg victory, ultimately progressing 5–1 on aggregate despite a 1–0 loss in the second leg.

In the 2021/22 season, under Manqoba Mngqithi’s leadership, Sundowns defeated Al Ahly 2–0 on aggregate, including a memorable 1–0 win at Cairo International Stadium, which helped them top their group.

While the goalless draw in the first leg took away the advantage Sundowns would have expected to hold at home, it doesn’t define their chances. With a squad packed with talent and a wealth of continental experience spanning seven consecutive seasons, they are well-equipped to advance to the final.

The experience of coach Miguel Cardoso — who reached last season's final against the same rivals while with Esperance — could be key for his side. And while he didn’t win, the lessons learned might prove invaluable for his charges.

The 2016 Champions League winners have played a key role in the growth of South African football, with their successes echoing across the continent. Their recent victory in the 2023 African Football League and upcoming participation in the prestigious Club World Cup, where they will compete alongside the best clubs globally, further solidify their place among Africa’s elite — Al Ahly included.

A significant portion of Hugo Broos’ national squad is comprised of Sundowns players, and their solid performance in the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifiers, following a third-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, demonstrates that no challenge is too great for them.

On Friday night, their main obstacle will be executing their game plan flawlessly, while avoiding any costly mistakes. And while the knockout stages always come with heightened intensity and pressure, the Brazilians have proven their ability to rise to the occasion.

With both teams well-acquainted with each other, the difference between them is likely to be minimal — but Sundowns' quality could well be the decisive factor on the day.