Mamelodi Sundowns, Al Ahly Battle to Stalemate in CAF Champions League Semifinal

Pretoria, South Africa — Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly fought to a tense 0-0 draw in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-finals at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on April 19, 2025. The match marks a crucial opportunity for Sundowns as they seek redemption after a disappointing exit in the Nedbank Cup.

Coach Miguel Cardoso fielded his strongest squad, determined to secure a good outcome before heading to Cairo for the return leg. Sundowns have a strong record against Al Ahly, remaining unbeaten in their last seven meetings, including a 5-2 victory in last season’s group stages. Both teams aim to assert themselves early in this semifinal clash.

Al Ahly, the defending champions, eliminated Florent Ibenge’s Al Hilal SC in the preceding quarter-finals, winning 2-0 on aggregate. Despite their historical success, they struggle in South Africa, having never won a match on South African soil. The starting line-ups saw Sundowns featuring players such as Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, and Teboho Mokoena, while Al Ahly had Mohamed El Shenawy and Ahmed Reda on their roster.

As the match began, fans created an electric atmosphere with early attempts from both teams highlighting a fierce competition. Al Ahly’s Ahmed Hashem took a notable shot from long range, but it missed the target. Sundowns held off Al Ahly’s attacks, concluding the first half with the score at 0-0.

Cardoso stressed the match’s significance, saying, “We need to focus on what lies ahead… let’s focus on the next matches and qualify for the next round.” The tension heightened as both teams unveiled tactical adjustments in the second half while striving for a breakthrough.

The match saw continued pressure from Sundowns, eager to enjoy a home advantage before heading into the return leg. Al Ahly looked to overcome their struggles in South Africa, drawing on their wealth of experience to perform in high-stake situations.

In the closing minutes, both teams pushed for a late goal, but solid defensive work from each side preserved the scoreline. After the match, Cardoso expressed pride in his team’s performance, noting, “We lost possession too often and didn’t play at the level we are used to.” With the first leg ending in a draw, both teams must analyze their strategies closely as they prepare for the decisive return leg in Cairo.

The rivalry continues as both Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly aim for a chance to reach the CAF Champions League final, keeping fans eagerly awaiting what unfolds next.