Masandawana Face Do-Or-Die Clash with Al Ahly in Caf Champions League Semi-Final
Mamelodi Sundowns are set for a high-stakes encounter in Cairo on Friday, 25 April, as they face defending champions Al Ahly in the second leg of their CAF Champions League semi-final. With the first leg in Tshwane ending in a 0-0 draw, both teams will be gunning for victory in this decisive clash at Cairo International Stadium.
For Sundowns, the match represents a crucial opportunity to secure a spot in the final and move one step closer to a second-ever CAF Champions League title. A scoring draw will be enough for the South African side to advance, making it a do-or-die moment for the two continental heavyweights.
Kick-Off Details:
- Game: Al Ahly vs Sundowns
- Date: 25 April 2025
- Kick-off: 18:00 SA Time
- Venue: Cairo International Stadium
How to Watch:
- Online Streaming: DStv.com/DStv Now App
- TV Channel: SuperSport TV’s PSL Channel 202/ SABC 3
- Live Commentary: Follow all the action on GOAL’s Live Text Commentary
Team News & Updates:
Al Ahly head coach Marcel Koller has no suspensions to worry about as his squad prepares for the crucial second leg. Key players such as goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, who will be instrumental in any potential penalty shootout scenario, are expected to be in action. The Egyptian giants will rely on their experienced lineup to overcome Sundowns at home.
Al Ahly Possible XI: El Shenawy, Rami Rabia, Ibrahim, Hany, Dari, Al Aash, Reda, Ashour, Attia, Taher Mohamed, Gradisar.
Sundowns, on the other hand, will welcome back club captain Themba Zwane, who made a brief appearance in the first leg following injury. His experience could be pivotal in the high-pressure match. However, central defender Mothobi Mvala, despite recovering from injury, might not feature due to a lack of match fitness.
Sundowns Possible XI: Williams, Mudau, Modiba, Kekana, Lebusa, Mokoena, Allende, Zwane, Ribeiro, Rayners, Shalulile.
Head-to-Head and Recent Form:
The rivalry between Al Ahly and Sundowns has intensified over the years, with the two teams clashing regularly in African competitions. Interestingly, both teams come into this encounter with similar recent forms, having won two of their last five matches, with two draws and one defeat. Despite the similarity in their recent performances, both sides are determined to secure a victory and reach the final.
In the first leg, Sundowns held Al Ahly to a 0-0 draw, and with an away goal rule no longer in effect, a draw with goals in Cairo will be enough for the South African side to advance. Sundowns will need to remain composed and execute their strategy carefully to overcome the Egyptian champions on their home turf.
What’s at Stake: For Sundowns, advancing to the CAF Champions League final is a monumental achievement, especially as they continue to build on their status as one of Africa’s premier clubs. A win in this semi-final could not only give them a chance to lift the coveted trophy but also further solidify their reputation as a continental powerhouse. The match in Cairo is a true test of their resilience, tactical discipline, and hunger for success.
Friday’s encounter between Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly is set to be a thrilling spectacle with everything on the line. As Masandawana head into this do-or-die battle, the stakes could not be higher, with a spot in the CAF Champions League final up for grabs. The players will need to be at their very best to overcome the defending champions in their own backyard and take one step closer to continental glory.
