In the opening CAF Champions League quarterfinal of the season, South African football giants Mamelodi Sundowns emerged victorious with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Tunisian powerhouse Esperance de Tunis at a packed Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday afternoon.
The decisive moment arrived in the second half, as Peter Shalulile capitalized on a well-crafted attacking move to secure the crucial goal.
Miguel Cardoso called upon the likes of Teboho Mokoena, Lucas Ribeiro Costa, and Peter Shalulile to the starting lineup following their previous encounter against Sekhukhune United in the Nedbank Cup. The inclusion of Bafana Bafana forward Elias Mokwana added an additional layer of intrigue, pitting him against his international teammates.
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From the outset, Sundowns asserted their dominance, showcasing their renowned possession-based style. The Brazilians enjoyed a staggering 88% possession in the opening 15 minutes, illustrating their intent to control the tempo. However, Esperance proved a formidable defensive block, coupled with a physical approach that made it challenging for Sundowns to penetrate their lines.
Midfield maestro Teboho Mokoena looked lively, unleashing a powerful long-range shot and a sharply executed free-kick, both of which were expertly saved by Esperance’s goalkeeper, Bechir Ben Said. Despite their sustained pressure, Sundowns struggled to create clear-cut scoring opportunities.
As the first half drew to a close, playmaker Lucas Ribeiro nearly broke the deadlock, executing a slick one-two with Jayden Adams. However, Ribeiro’s low, driven shot narrowly missed the target, leaving the scoreline unchanged at halftime.
Sundowns’ persistence paid off shortly after the resumption of play. Double Betway Premiership player of the month Ribeiro delivered an inviting cross into the penalty area, which January addition Jayden Adams expertly headed across goal, allowing Peter Shalulile to tap in from close range.
Esperance, however, responded with renewed vigor, seeking an equalizer. A dangerous free-kick from Yan Medeiros Sasse, following a foul on star player Mohamed Youcef Belaili, caused a frantic scramble inside the Sundowns box. The home side’s defenders displayed remarkable resilience, putting their bodies on the line to thwart the visitors’ attempts.
In an attempt to see off the game, Cardoso made tactical substitutions. Arthur Sales replaced Morena early in the second half, and with less than 10 minutes remaining, Shalulile and Adams were withdrawn for Thapelo Maseko and Bathusi Aubaas, respectively. Sundowns controlled possession, limiting Esperance’s attacking forays and ensuring that the encounter concluded without any hiccups.
Cardoso, visibly animated on the touchline, breathed a sigh of relief as the final whistle sounded, securing a crucial victory. The reigning South African champions will carry a 1-0 advantage and a clean sheet into the second leg, although they are acutely aware that the tie remains delicately poised.
The return leg, scheduled for April 8th, 2025, will see Miguel Cardoso return to Tunisia, facing his former club with a favorable result in hand. Remarkably, this victory marks Cardoso as the first Sundowns coach to overcome Esperance de Tunis, adding a significant chapter to the club’s history.