Divine Lunga: Sundowns Aim to Avoid Penalties and Finish the Job Against Al Ahly

Mamelodi Sundowns left-back Divine Lunga has spoken candidly about the club’s intentions to wrap up their CAF Champions League semifinal clash against Egyptian giants Al Ahly within regular time on Friday night.

The Brazilians travel to the Cairo International Stadium for the decisive second leg, having played out a goalless draw with the record African champions in the first leg in Pretoria. With a place in the final at stake, the stakes could not be higher in what has become a marquee continental rivalry.

“This will not be an easy game, just like it wasn’t in Pretoria,” Lunga admitted ahead of the clash. “But we are going to put in our A game so that we can win. We don’t want to go to penalties because penalties are like gambling. We want to finish this in 90 minutes.”

The left-back, who has been part of a formidable Sundowns defence this season, emphasized the team’s mindset and preparation to handle the hostile environment expected in Cairo.

“Playing in a big stadium is not a new thing for us. We have national team players who are used to playing in front of huge crowds. It’s a normal game for us, and we will do our best,” said the Zimbabwean international.

The fixture between Sundowns and Al Ahly has developed into a fierce rivalry on the African stage. Since their first meeting in the 2001 Champions League final, the two sides have clashed 17 times—each winning five games, with seven ending in draws. The balance of power has often shifted between them, and this semifinal tie is yet another chapter in their storied history.

With both teams ranked first and second on CAF’s 5-year club ranking system, the clash in Cairo is being billed as a final before the final.

Sundowns, who have won the Champions League once (in 2016), are hoping to return to the final after falling short in recent years, while Al Ahly are targeting their 12th continental crown.

As kickoff approaches, the focus for Sundowns is clear—avoid the lottery of a penalty shootout and seal progression with a decisive performance in regulation time.