Match Details
- Fixture: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Al Ahly
- Venue: Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
- Kick-off: Saturday, 15:00 CAT
- Broadast: SABC Sport
A Rivalry Renewed in Pretoria
One of African football’s fiercest modern rivalries is set to ignite once again as Mamelodi Sundowns host Al Ahly in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-finals. Both clubs have grown accustomed to crossing paths at the sharp end of the competition, and this encounter is expected to deliver another chapter of drama and quality.
Al Ahly’s Long Road to Pretoria
Despite the vast distance — over 5,800 miles separating Cairo from Pretoria — Al Ahly’s devoted supporters are expected to travel to South Africa to back the Red Devils. The club’s continental pedigree demands nothing less, and their fans will hope their presence can inspire another historic performance.
Balanced Rivalry, Unsettled Scores
Since their first meeting in 2001, these two African heavyweights have clashed 16 times in competitive fixtures. Both sides boast five wins apiece, while six matches have ended in draws — proof of just how evenly matched they remain.
Of course, Sundowns’ crushing 5-0 victory in 2019 still lingers as one of the most famous results in the rivalry, and one Al Ahly will never forget.
Cardoso’s Tactical Discipline vs Koller’s Big-Match Mentality
Miguel Cardoso, in his debut season as Sundowns coach, has quickly adapted to the demands of African football, steering his side to the semi-final with only three goals conceded in the entire campaign. His emphasis on defensive structure and game management has paid dividends.
On the other hand, Marcel Koller’s Al Ahly are the reigning champions for good reason. The Swiss tactician has already lifted back-to-back CAF Champions League trophies and knows exactly how to handle the pressure of knockout ties, even when form is inconsistent.
Al Ahly’s Mixed Domestic Form
While their continental campaign has been steady, Al Ahly are not at their best domestically, sitting seven points behind league leaders Pyramids FC. The trip to face Sundowns comes at an awkward moment, especially against a side buoyed by home support and momentum.
Probable Starting Line-Ups
Mamelodi Sundowns (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams
- Defenders: Mudau, Kekana, Suarez, Modiba
- Midfielders: Allende, Mokoena
- Attackers: Ribeiro, Adams, Morena
- Striker: Peter Shalulile
- Coach: Miguel Cardoso (Portugal)
Al Ahly (4-2-3-1)
- Goalkeeper: Mohamed El Shenawy
- Defenders: Attiyat Allal, Hany, Rabia, Dari
- Midfielders: Tawfik, Ateya
- Attackers: El Shahat, Ashour, Bencharki
- Striker: Wessam Abou Ali
- Coach: Marcel Koller (Switzerland)
Match Prediction and Betting Tips
| Market | Tip | Odds (Example)* |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | Mamelodi Sundowns to Win | 2.05 |
| Both Teams to Score | Yes | 1.87 |
| Correct Score Prediction | Sundowns 2-1 Al Ahly | 7.50 |
| Over/Under Goals | Over 2.5 Goals | 2.10 |
| Anytime Goalscorer | Peter Shalulile (Sundowns) | 2.75 |
Odds are indicative and may vary by bookmaker. Always check your betting platform for the latest prices.
With home advantage, solid defensive form, and a vibrant crowd behind them, Sundowns enter the tie as narrow favourites. But writing off Al Ahly in a Champions League semi-final would be a mistake — the Egyptians thrive in adversity. Expect a tight, high-quality contest in Pretoria.
Related article: Mamelodi Sundowns Reach CAF Champions League Semi-finals After Goalless Draw Against Espérance
