The modern era's most compelling African club football rivalry reignites as South Africa's Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to battle Egyptian giants Al Ahly in a tantalizing CAF Champions League semi-final that could very well usher in a new continental order.
This marks the fifth consecutive season these two powerhouses have met in the competition, a testament to a rivalry brimming with dramatic encounters that have captivated fans across the continent.
The clash embodies a symbolic power struggle: the progressive might of South Africa against the enduring legacy of Egypt.
It's a battle between modern footballing philosophies and deep-rooted tradition, technical brilliance versus historical dominance.
RECENT FORM
Masandawana are coming from a shock 2-1 defeat at the hands of Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup semi-final which was held on Sunday at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Meanwhile, their CAF Champions League journey saw them convincingly overcome Esperance sportive de Tunis in the quarterfinals.
On the other hand, Al Ahly's most recent outing was a 1-1 draw against Egyptian Premier League leaders Pyramids, with the Red Devils currently sitting third in their domestic standings.
To reach this stage of the Champions League, Marcel Koller's side eliminated Al Hilal of Sudan with a 2-0 aggregate victory in their quarterfinal tie.
WHAT THEY SAID
Sundowns midfielder Jayden Adams believes that a comfortable win with a high number of goals against Al Ahly in the Pretoria leg will be crucial for their chances in the second leg.
“I think the preparation is going well after coming from a loss against Chiefs, going into this one, especially Sundowns are a very good team against another one, in Al Ahly, it’s a nice experience for us and we’re prepared well,” Adams said
“The focus is more on us beating them here, so away it’s very difficult [in Cairo]. We need to score as much goals as possible here to make it easier for ourselves going away, where they are very good in the Champions League, they know how to win trophies.”
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Sundowns: Williams, Mudau, Kekana, Suarez, Lunga, Mokoena, Aubaas, Shalulile, Ribeiro, Allende Rayners
Al Ahly: El Shenawy, Allah, Rabia, Dari, Hany, Tawfik, Ateya, Bencharki, Ashour, El Shahat, Ali
DATE, VENUE, KICKOFF TIME & WHERE TO WATCH
The two sides will face off on Saturday, 19 April at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium at 3 PM. The match will be televised on SuperSport 202 and SABC 1.
