Preview: Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly clash in CAF Champions League semi-final showdown

This blockbuster encounter pits two African football giants against each other in a battle for a coveted spot in the final.

Sundowns have held the upper hand over Al Ahly in recent years, remaining unbeaten in their last seven encounters since 2021. Their disciplined 1-0 aggregate victory over Esperance de Tunis in the quarter-finals showcased their defensive resilience and tactical nous. However, a 2-1 defeat to Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup semi-final last weekend raised concerns about fatigue in the squad after a gruelling season.

Al Ahly, the record 12-time champions and defending title holders, are a formidable force despite a lacklustre 2-0 aggregate win over Al Hilal in the previous round. A 1-1 draw against Pyramids FC in the Egyptian Premier League last weekend has intensified scrutiny on coach Marcel Koller, with reports indicating his job could be at risk if the Red Eagles fail to progress.

Recent updates from X highlight the confidence within the Sundowns camp. A post from the club's official account stated, "We're ready to defend our fortress and take the fight to Al Ahly!"

Meanwhile, Al Ahly's Koller has faced criticism from fans online, with one user posting, "Koller must deliver in Pretoria, or his time is up."

Players to Watch

Mamelodi Sundowns  
Iqraam Rayners: The striker's knack for scoring in tight situations makes him a constant threat.  

Teboho Mokoena: The midfield maestro's composure and long-range shooting, as seen in his stunning goal against Kaizer Chiefs, will be crucial.  

Peter Shalulile: His movement and experience up front remain vital for creating chances.

Al Ahly  
Emam Ashour: With five goals in the competition, the attacking midfielder is a lethal weapon for the Red Eagles.  

Wessam Abou Ali: His clinical finishing, with three goals this season, adds firepower to Al Ahly's attack.  

Hussein El Shahat: The winger's creativity and three goals make him a key figure in breaking down defences.

Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso acknowledged the challenge posed by Al Ahly. "They've dominated the Champions League for years, and I know their quality, having lost to them in last year's final with Esperance," he said. "But we believe we can beat them. It'll take two near-perfect games, with every detail executed flawlessly."

Koller, under pressure to secure a third consecutive title, remained defiant. "We've faced Sundowns many times, and these matches are always tough," he said. "Our goal is the final, and we have the quality to achieve it. The players are motivated to make history."

Sundowns and Al Ahly have clashed 16 times in competitive matches, with each side claiming five wins and six draws. However, Sundowns have dominated recently, including a 1-0 aggregate triumph in the 2023 African Football League semi-finals. Their ability to neutralise Al Ahly's attack has been a hallmark of this rivalry.

This semi-final promises to be a tactical chess match. Sundowns' high-pressing style and midfield control, led by Mokoena and Marcelo Allende, will test Al Ahly's resolve.

The Red Eagles, however, boast match-winners like Ashour, whose flair could punish any defensive lapses. With both teams under pressure to deliver, expect a tightly contested battle where fine margins could decide the outcome.

Sundowns will aim to leverage their home advantage and unbeaten streak against Al Ahly, while the Egyptian giants are desperate to reassert their dominance. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter that could shape the path to African glory.