The stage is set for a captivating showdown in Radès, Tunisia, as four-time CAF Champions League winners ES Tunis welcome South African powerhouse and 2016 champions Mamelodi Sundowns for the decisive second leg of their quarter-final clash.
Aftermath
Mamelodi Sundowns carry a slender 1-0 advantage into this return fixture, courtesy of a second-half strike from their talismanic Namibian forward, Peter Shalulile, in the Pretoria leg. While the scoreline suggests a tight affair, the first match painted a picture of Sundowns dominating possession, enjoying a staggering 80% of the ball. However, the Tunisian defense proved resolute, limiting the Brazilians to few clear-cut opportunities.
Despite their first-leg victory, Sundowns will be under no illusions about the formidable task that awaits them at the Stade Hammadi Agrebi. The passionate and often intimidating atmosphere created by the ES Tunis faithful will undoubtedly play a significant role. Moreover, history offers a cautionary tale for the South African outfit.
Their current coach, Miguel Cardoso, was at the helm of ES Tunis last season when they edged out Sundowns 2-0 on aggregate, securing identical 1-0 victories both home and away. In both those encounters, much like the first leg this year, Sundowns controlled possession but ultimately failed to penetrate the Tunisian defense.
Player Spotlight
Esperance head coach Maher Kanzari showcased a formidable lineup during the first-leg encounter in Tshwane, indicating his confidence in the squad’s capabilities. Given their solid performance, Kanzari is unlikely to make significant changes to his team for the return leg, preferring to rely on the cohesion and chemistry that his players have already demonstrated.
One key figure to watch is South African winger Elias Mokwana, who could play a pivotal role for Esperance while simultaneously posing a threat to his compatriots. Mokwana, who previously plied his trade with Sekhukhune United, has been a standout performer in his debut CAF Champions League campaign.
Over the course of six appearances, the Bafana Bafana star has netted three goals and provided one assist, showcasing both his scoring prowess and ability to create opportunities for his teammates. His impact on the field could be crucial as Esperance aims to overturn the first leg deficit and secure progression to the semi-final of the coveted tournament.
How to watch
The match is scheduled to kick-off at 21:00 on Tuesday, 08 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 202 and can be streamed on Showmax, as well as SABC 1 and SABC plus.
Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi
The 65 000 seater stadium will host the clash between Esperance Sportive de Tunis and Mamelodi Sundowns. The Rades based stadium was constructed to host the 2001 Mediterranean Games and has served as a venue for major sporting events, especially football and athletics. Most notably, it hosted the 2004 African Cup of Nation, where Tunisia defeated Morocco to lift the trophy.
The stadium serves as the home ground for the Tunisian national football team as well as Esperance Sportive de Tunis and Club Africain respectively.
Betting odds (supplied by Hollywoodbets)
To win (90 min)
Esperance Sportive de Tunis 9/10 | Draw 18/10 | Mamelodi Sundowns 34/10
No doubt the air will be thick with tension and anticipation as both sides vie for a coveted spot in the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League!
I think a big win for the hosts is on the cards – back the home side on the win and over 2.5 goals at 51/20.