Mamelodi Sundowns qualified for the finals of the CAF Champions League after a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Cairo against almighty Al Ahly.
The Brazilians always had a huge advantage ahead of the game due to the away goal rule with Al Ahly’s home advantage not posing much threat to the South Africans.
The first leg ended 0-0 in Pretoria, with Al Ahly looking the deadliest of the two after the home team failed to record a single shot on target, although they enjoyed much possession.
The second leg had promised to be a cagey affair because the stakes were extremely high. With a place in the finals and bragging rights, both sides were determined to progress.
The latest Derby in African football was never ever going to disappoint in terms of competition and intensity.
The game got off to a great start, with Mamelodi Sundowns enjoying the possession as expected earlier on but never troubled the home team.
Tashreeq Mathews was the first to take a shot with his left foot in the 6th minute as his chance flashed past the upright!
In the 24th minute, Emam Ashour’s delightful through ball was controlled beautifully by Taher Mohamed, whose first-time powerful shot on the edge of the eighteen-yard box was too hot for Williams to stop. It gave the Egyptians the needed lead.
Al Ahly’s next chance in the 33rd minute was stopped by Williams to deny the North Africans doubling their lead.
Sundowns enjoyed the possession but failed to trouble Mohamed El Shenawy before halftime.
The second 45 minutes was make or break for Miguel Cardozo and his charges. Al Ahly started panicking because they were being attacked from all angles by the Masandawana.
The action was much seen on the right side where Khuliso Mudau was active for the South Africans.
With the introduction of the deadly trio of Themba Zwane, Peter Shalulile and Iqram Reyners to look for the most important goal, Sundowns’ threat was doubled as Al Ahly’s defence and midfield started losing their rhythm.
A long-range effort from Mokoena in the 87th minute tested El Shenawy and forced him to make a good save.
On the stroke of 90 minutes, the Brazilians levelled as the ball ricocheted off Yasser Ibrahim’s leg and went into the back of the net!
It was a huge joy for the travellers and a massive broken heart for the defending champions.
Ten extra minutes were played even though the referee added seven, but Al Ahly could not find the winning goal.
It was Mamelodi Sundown’s first trip to the finals of the CAF Champions League since they won their only title in 2016.
The winner of Pyramids and Orlando Pirates will face the Brazilians.
