Mamelodi Sundowns have advanced to the CAF Champions League final after a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Al Ahly in the second leg of the semi-finals. The outcome was all but sealed by an unfortunate own goal from Al Ahly defender Yasser Ibrahim, propelling Sundowns into a final for the first time since their historic triumph in 2016.
The encounter was marked by fervent pace and high stakes as both sides aimed to clinch a spot in the coveted final. Mamelodi Sundowns showcased their tenacity and determination to secure an aggregate scoreline that could take them past the formidable Egyptian giants.
Leading the charge for Sundowns, Taher Mohamed opened the scoring with a stunning strike that dazzled fans in the first half. Capitalising on a swift counterattack, Mohamed picked himself up and dispatched a sharply executed shot from the edge of the area, sending the ball flying into the back of the net. His effort was soon matched by a desperation for parity from the visitors, but they were met with fierce resistance from Sundowns.
As the match progressed, Sundowns found themselves under sustained pressure from Al Ahly, who were determined to overturn their deficit. In the dying moments of the game, Teboho Mokoena unleashed a long-range effort that drew a commendable save from Al Ahly’s goalkeeper, Mohamed El-Shenawy, preserving the tension in the air.
Despite Al Ahly’s best attempts to disrupt Sundowns’ momentum, including a late-foul by Iqraam Rayners that halted a promising Al Ahly play, the team could not find their rhythm. The clock was ticking down, and with every passing minute, Sundowns clung to their hopes of a comeback, but the match would ultimately favour the home side.
As the final whistle blew, Sundowns celebrated their passage to the final, while Al Ahly were left reflecting on a missed opportunity that marked a bitter end to their campaign.