Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates are on course for the CAF Champions League semi-finals after crucial first-leg quarter-final victories, Writes DYLAN JOHNSON
Sundowns edged past Tunisian giants Esperance Tunis with a 1-0 home win at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, while Pirates claimed an impressive away victory against MC Alger in Algeria. These results put both South African powerhouses in commanding positions heading into their respective second-leg fixtures.
Last season, Esperance denied Sundowns a place in the final by eliminating them at the semi-final stage, but this season looks poised for a different outcome. Namibian international Peter Shalulile was the hero for Masandawana, netting in the second half to hand his team the advantage.
Despite controlling possession and dictating the tempo, Sundowns struggled to carve out clear-cut chances against a well-drilled Esperance side that sat deep and looked for opportunities on the counterattack. However, after taking the lead, Sundowns continued to dominate, ensuring the visitors had little chance of finding an equalizer.
Orlando Pirates managed to snatch a vital away goal courtesy of 20-year-old midfielder Mohau Nkota. The Buccaneers endured immense pressure from MC Alger, being outplayed in nearly every statistic, but their resilience paid off. Now, they return to South Africa with a slender advantage and the opportunity to seal their place in the semi-finals in front of their home supporters.
While both sides aim for continental glory, they remain locked in a battle for the PSL title. Sundowns are in pole position, sitting 15 points clear at the top of the table. With four games in hand, Pirates could cut the gap to just three points if they win all their fixtures.
Defending champions Al Ahly edged Sudan’s Al Hilal SC with a narrow 1-0 win at the Al Salam Stadium in Cairo, while Egyptian side Pyramids FC dispatched Moroccan giants AS FAR 4-1 at the 30 June Stadium.
This sets up a likely semi-final showdown between two Egyptian teams and two South African teams. If Sundowns and Pirates progress, their paths will be clear: Sundowns will face either Al Ahly or Al Hilal, while Pirates will take on either Pyramids FC or AS FAR.
If their form continues and they overcome Egypt’s best, an all-PSL CAF Champions League final could be on the cards.
With first-leg victories secured, Sundowns and Pirates hold the advantage and look set to reach the CAF Champions League semi-finals. Their quality puts them in prime position to finish the job by eliminating Esperance Tunis and MC Alger.
Photo: Lefty Shivambu/Gallo Images