Pretoria, South Africa – Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly faced off in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-finals on April 19, 2025, but ended in a tense 0-0 draw at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. This match was crucial for Sundowns, who aimed to rebound from a disappointing Nedbank Cup exit against Kaizer Chiefs.
Coach Miguel Cardoso prepared his strongest squad, keen to secure an advantage before heading to Cairo for the return leg. Sundowns entered the game with confidence, boasting seven unbeaten results against Al Ahly, including a 5-2 victory last season in the group stages. This rivalry’s history heightened the stakes, with both teams eager to assert dominance early on.
Al Ahly, the defending champions, advanced past Al Hilal SC in the quarter-finals with a 2-0 aggregate, showcasing their experience in such high-pressure fixtures. However, they have historically struggled to win on South African soil and looked to change that narrative.
The starting lineups revealed a strong contest, with Sundowns featuring key players such as Ronwen Williams, Khuliso Mudau, and Teboho Mokoena. Al Ahly’s squad included Mohamed El Shenawy and Ahmed Reda, both seasoned in intense matches. Fans filled the stadium, creating an electrifying atmosphere as the teams began their tactical dance.
Early attempts from both sides indicated fierce competition; Al Ahly’s Ahmed Hashem fired a shot from outside the box that swerved wide of the mark. Meanwhile, Sundowns’ defense, bolstered by solid performances, successfully neutralized numerous attacks.
As the first half ended goalless, Cardoso emphasized his team’s need to look forward, stating, “We need to focus on what lies ahead. Today’s match is over… Let’s focus on the next matches and qualify for the next round.” His remarks painted a picture of resilience amid recent setbacks.
The second half saw intensified tactics, with both coaches making adjustments. Still, neither side managed to break the deadlock, as the goalkeepers remained relatively untested despite promising offensive plays. As the closing minutes approached, the tension was palpable, with supporters urging their teams to push for a victory.
The match ended without goals, represented as a stalemate that leaves both teams looking to improve when they meet again in Cairo for the decisive leg. Cardoso expressed pride in his squad’s effort, while acknowledging areas for growth, remarking, “We lost possession too often and didn’t play at the level we are used to.”
With each team equal on aggregate, the rivalry continues as they prepare for the second leg, raising questions about whether Sundowns will take advantage of their home performance or if Al Ahly will finally capture victory in South Africa. Fans now await what promises to be an equally thrilling encounter full of drama and high stakes in Cairo.
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