sportskeeda
Miguel Cardoso, coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, stresses the importance of delivering two flawless performances against Al Ahly to secure a place in the CAF Champions League final.
Sundowns secured their semi-final berth by edging out ES Esperance with a 1-0 aggregate score, after a goalless second leg in the quarter-finals on Tuesday. The pivotal first-leg goal from Peter Shalulile in Pretoria made all the difference. This achievement marks Sundowns’ third consecutive appearance in the semi-finals, setting a new record for South African clubs.
Their upcoming rivals, Al Ahly, boast an impressive legacy with 12 Champions League titles and progressed by defeating Sudan’s Al Hilal. Notably, Al Ahly won the competition last season after overcoming Esperance, a team previously managed by Cardoso, who joined Sundowns in December.
“We understand that Al Ahly has claimed numerous Champions League titles over the past seven to eight years, including last year,” remarked Cardoso.
“I unfortunately faced defeat in the final against them, but I am confident that we can win.”
“To achieve that, we need to exhibit two complete and robust performances, paying close attention to the details.”
“Therefore, we must be very solid and prepare ourselves in the best way possible, as the match is approaching quickly.”
“Moreover, we also have a Nedbank Cup semi-final against Kaizer Chiefs this Sunday, which must be our immediate priority, considering it is a tough fixture.”
“Our focus will shift to the Champions League match after that.”
Sundowns made their way back to South Africa via a chartered flight immediately following their match in Tunisia. Cardoso confirmed that the players would rest on Wednesday and commence their recovery process on Thursday.
As they enter the semi-final, Sundowns are the favorites, remaining unbeaten in their last seven outings against Al Ahly. They have also made history by netting five goals against the Egyptian giants on two occasions.
Al Ahly is scheduled to visit South Africa for the first leg on April 18, with the return leg taking place in Cairo on April 25, both matches critical for claiming a spot in the final.
This semi-final clash revisits the 2001 Champions League final, in which Al Ahly triumphed with a 4-1 aggregate score. Gift Kampamba scored Sundowns’ only goal in that encounter with a left-footed strike.
