The weight of expectation rests heavily on Miguel Cardoso’s shoulders as his Mamelodi Sundowns outfit prepare to face Al Ahly in a crucial CAF Champions League semi-final clash on home turf this Saturday at Loftus Versveld.
For Cardoso, anything short of a victory in the nation’s capital against the formidable Egyptian giants is simply not an option as the Brazilians chase a coveted spot in the final.
Time to Shine
Masandawana’s memories of their sole continental triumph in 2016, a 3-1 aggregate victory over Zamalek, will certainly fuel their ambition ahead of the crunch encounter. However, the ghost of their only other final appearance – a painful loss to none other than Al Ahly in 2001 – serves as a stark reminder of the challenge that lies ahead.
Read: Miguel Cardoso expects nothing less than a win at home to Al Ahly
Despite this history, Sundowns can draw strength from their impressive home record against Al Ahly, having secured four wins and three draws in their seven encounters on South African soil, reinforcing confidence in Cardoso’s quest to achieve a positive first-leg result. While their overall head-to-head record stands at five wins, six losses, and six draws in 16 matches, the focus now is firmly on leveraging their home advantage.
Having navigated the bitter disappointment of a controversial Nedbank Cup semi-final exit to Kaizer Chiefs, Cardoso has made it unequivocally clear that the runaway Betway Premiership leaders are determined to conclude the season with more than one trophy.
What was said
Speaking to the Sowetan, Miguel Cardoso said, “We have a tough competition ahead against such a strong team – [it’s] obviously a challenge. But we have to beat them. The club did win in the past, so let’s try our best.
“And from there we will hope we will have a final to play and several league matches to play until the end, and to raise trophies.”
Reflecting on the Chiefs defeat where it appeared as his side were knocked out by an off-side goal, the Downs boss added: “It was not our best game.
“We should have done better, we can do better. But let’s not penalise ourselves too much. I don’t think we get more energy out of a loss [but] I think we should have started stronger against Amakhosi.”
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 15:00 on Saturday, 19 April 2025 and will be carried live on the public broadcaster’s radio stations for commentary.
The match will be broadcast live on satellite TV giants SuperSport channel 209 and can also be streamed on Showmax, with the build-up set to commence half an hour prior to kick off.
Additionally, the match will be broadcast live on SABC 1 and can be streamed on SABC Plus and SABC Sport digital platforms.
Loftus Versfeld Stadium
The 51 000 seater stadium will host the clash between Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly.
The venue has been something of a fortress for Sundowns, who dominated the South African topflight last season, winning 13 of their 15 league matches played here.
Shared with the Blue Bulls rugby team, Loftus has been the stage for iconic sporting moments, including the 2023 African Football League final, multiple Currie Cup finals, and the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Mamelodi Sundowns 7/10 | Draw 2/1 | Al Ahly 44/0
No doubt the air will be thick with tension and anticipation as both sides vie for a coveted spot in the final of the CAF Champions League!
I think the hosts will do enough to secure a positive result on home soil.
Back Sundowns on the win and BTTS (yes) at 39/10!