Mamelodi Sundowns survived a tough trip to Bamako to set up a massive showdown against Esperance, while Morocco’s AS FAR and RS Berkane prepare for a North African derby. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
The semi-finals of the CAF Champions League are set in stone after a thrilling weekend saw both Egyptian powerhouses knocked out.
Mamelodi Sundowns secured their place in the semi-finals, overcoming the pressure of a fierce encounter despite a 2-0 loss to Stade Malien. The South African side’s aggregate victory of 3–2, built on a strong first-leg performance, saw them through to their fourth successive semi-final and sixth overall in the competition’s history.
Facing Stade Malien in Bamako, Sundowns summoned their resilience after an intense second leg. Coach Miguel Cardoso’s men had already established a vital lead in the first leg, which proved to be the difference as they held firm against their Malian opponents, who threw everything at them in pursuit of an upset.
Despite the setback in Bamako, Sundowns have illustrated their consistency among Africa’s elite, reaffirming their status as serious contenders in the tournament.
The excitement didn’t end there as the Tunisian giants, Esperance Sportive de Tunis, provided a stunning upset by knocking out the continent’s record champions, Al Ahly. Having secured a narrow 1-0 victory in the first leg, Esperance delivered a thrilling performance in Cairo, overcoming an early deficit to win 3–2 and progress with a 4–2 aggregate score.
The dramatic match saw Esperance overturn the momentum in a high-stakes atmosphere, sealing the win with a late goal that silenced the crowd in the usually hostile Cairo International Stadium.
With the elimination of both Egyptian giants, there will be an exciting semi-final encounter between Sundowns and Esperance. Sundowns' mentor, Miguel Cardoso, has previously coached Esperance. This pairing promises to be an intense battle, featuring two teams with rich histories and contrasting styles of play.
Adding to the weekend’s surprises, defending champions Pyramids FC were also edged out, falling at the hands of AS FAR Rabat. The first leg in Morocco ended in a 1-1 draw, but Pyramids could not hold out at home, succumbing to a 2-1 defeat. AS FAR’s disciplined performance secured a 3–2 aggregate victory, effectively ending Pyramids’ reign as continental champions.
AS FAR’s victory means they will meet RS Berkane in an all-Moroccan semi-final after Berkane triumphed over Al-Hilal, aided by a last-minute goal that sealed their advancement with a 2-1 aggregate scoreline.
As the semi-finals approach, the narrative becomes ever more compelling, with the promise of tactical battles, high stakes, and the quest for continental glory stronger than ever.