Mamelodi Sundowns advance to CAF Champions League semis after thrilling draw with Esperance

Mamelodi Sundowns booked their spot in the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League with a goalless draw against Espérance at the Olympic Stadium on Tuesday, winning the tie 1–0 on aggregate.

The Brazilians confirmed their place among the last four as they avenged last season’s loss to the same opponents and will face Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the semi-finals, whilst Pyramids FC also progressed and will face either Orlando Pirates or MC Alger in the next round.

Returning to his old stomping grounds, Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso made two changes to the team that won the first leg, with Divine Lunga and Arthur Sales starting ahead of Aubrey Modiba and Iqraam Rayners.

Having made those slightly conservative alterations, he would have been pleased with how the opening 45 minutes unfolded, with his side only surviving two threatening moments – the most dangerous coming within the first two minutes.

The ever-reliable Ronwen Williams, however, came up trumps early on, making a spectacular save to thwart a chaotic start for the hosts, spurred on by a 60 000 strong partisan crowd at the Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi.

What was more reassuring for the visitors was their ability not only to retain 63% of possession but also to create chances – the best falling to Marcelo Allende two minutes before half-time. The Chilean midfielder drove through the centre with space ahead of him before unleashing a shot that cannoned off the crossbar, with the goalkeeper completely beaten.

Having upped the tempo in the second half, Espérance thought they had found the breakthrough in the 63rd minute, but Achref Jabri’s strike was ruled out by VAR for offside.

Despite sustained pressure in the closing stages, Sundowns weathered the storm and claimed the result to progress further in the tournament. On Wednesday night, they could be joined by Pirates, who host MCA with a 1-0 advantage.