Matshelane Mamabolo
The CAF Champions League semi-final matches are still very much up in the air, as both initial encounters have been closely fought without yielding many goals. With Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates set to face decisive away games in Egypt, the path to the finale is equally accessible for these two prominent South African clubs.
When Sundowns aim to secure a spot in their second Champions League final ever, they will go up against reigning champions Al Ahly at the Cairo International Stadium on Friday (6pm local time). In another match, Orlando Pirates will have a tough challenge as they play against Pyramids FC at the 30 June Stadium, with kickoff set for 8pm South African time.
Here,
Obakeng Meletse
examines five crucial discussion topics before these highly awaited semi-final matches.
With our backs against the wall, however, the away goal rule could be our salvation.
Both South African teams might have aimed to be more dominant in the initial matches, yet having endured tense periods—including VAR reviews that disallowed goals originally sanctioned on the pitch—they now travel to Egypt preparing for a fierce offensive from their adversaries.
Nevertheless, the 0-0 ties they achieved at home might prove advantageous since any even scoreline in the upcoming matches would allow them to advance based on their better performance away from home.
Playing to your strengths
The Pirates led their group and have yet to lose in the competition as they head towards the second leg. Their impressive form at the beginning of the season—including winning the MTN8 and starting strongly in the Betway Premiership—was characterized by an exhilarating, offensive style of play.
Nonetheless, they have lately been compelled to take a more careful stance, notably during their quarter-final match against MC Alger, where they safeguarded a slim 1-0 advantage from the initial leg. This sort of strategic versatility tends to be crucial in the CAF Champions League, as the capacity to adjust strategies frequently determines a team’s success. Nevertheless, facing an aggressive Pyramids squad, Pirates may discover that launching attacks could prove to be the most effective means of defending themselves.
Sundowns should take advantage of their mental superiority.
The Brazilian teams have faced the 12-time champions much more frequently compared to many other South American sides. Given their recent favorable track record against these Egyptian powerhouses, they should leverage this advantage effectively.
Sundowns have consistently performed well when traveling to Egypt, remaining undefeated in their last three trips against the North African side, which includes their AFC Champions League semi-final match in 2023.
Pirates require their young players to rise to the occasion, once more.
Mbekezeli Mbokazi has stood out as one of the most promising young players within the Pirates’ squad. Despite joining the team late in the competition, he has made significant contributions, helping keep their total goals against them to just four throughout the event.
Mohau Nkota has significantly influenced their progress with three vital goals scored, yet they desperately hope that their star player, Relebohile Mofokeng, can ignite the team once again as they approach the second-to-last stage of the competition.
Miguel Cardoso is set to secure his second consecutive finals appearance.
The Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso led Esperance de Tunis to last year’s CAF Champions League final against Al Ahly, where his team narrowly lost with an aggregate score of 1-0. This experience might be incredibly beneficial for him as he aims to navigate Sundowns past the semi-finals stage following their two earlier unsuccessful attempts.
Sundowns last reached the final in 2016 – the year they lifted the trophy – and given the squad’s depth, experience, and momentum this season, they may now be better positioned than ever before to make a long-awaited return to the final.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).