CAF Champions League: Sundowns and Pyramids FC play to goalless draw

It was the Egyptians that enjoyed the brighter start at Loftus Versveld, with several spirited attacks. But by midway through the opening half, Sundowns had wrestled back the initiative.

The hosts pressed on a number of occasions thanks to the fast feet of Ribiero Costa and Themba Zwane, but were unable to create any clear-cut chances. Sundowns were then forced into an early change after Abdelmounaim Boutouil suffered a knock, introducing Thapelo Korena to the fray.

Masandawana turned up the heat in the second stanza, almost finding the back of the net via a snap shot from Thapelo Maseka that left goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy scrambling. Minutes later, Pyramids gloveman was again called upon to make a fine save after some magic from Costa.

A rare defensive mistake from Sundowns handed South-African-born Fagrie Lakay a golden opportunity to take the lead, but he failed to take the chance.

The deadlock looked to have finally broken in the 80th minute when superstar Peter Shalulile fired home a first-time volley, but the offside flag ruled out the goal.

Despite finishing the match with ten men after Osama Gaslal was sent off for a second yellow card, the Pyramids held on for a share of the points.