Date: Friday, April 25
Time: 18:00 CAT
Venue: Cairo International Stadium
First Leg Result: 0-0
Al Ahly vs Mamelodi Sundowns is set to deliver another thrilling chapter in their growing rivalry as the two giants clash in the second leg of the CAF Champions League semi-final on Friday night. After a tightly contested 0-0 draw in Pretoria, everything will be decided under the lights of Cairo, with a place in the final at stake.
Pressure on Sundowns to Deliver
Mamelodi Sundowns enter this match with their backs against the wall. Despite dominating possession (74%) in the first leg, they failed to register a single shot on target, while Al Ahly had three attempts — two of which found the back of the net but were ruled offside.
Coach Miguel Cardoso will need a much-improved display from his side if they are to reach their first final since 2016, when they won their only CAF Champions League title. Having fallen at the semi-final stage in the past two editions, the pressure is mounting on Cardoso to deliver continental success — especially following the exits of previous coaches Rulani Mokwena and Manqoba Mngqithi for similar shortcomings.
Head-to-Head and Recent Form
Although Al Ahly boast a record 12 Champions League titles, Sundowns hold a psychological edge, going eight games unbeaten against the Egyptian giants — four wins and four draws — including a famous 5-2 win in March 2023. However, the last three meetings between the two have produced just one goal, pointing to another potentially cagey affair.
Both sides come into this clash with identical form: two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five matches. They’re each without a win in their last two games, making Friday night’s encounter a pivotal moment in their respective seasons.
Team News
Sundowns are boosted by the return of captain Themba Zwane, who made a cameo in the first leg after recovering from a long-term Achilles injury. While not ready for a full 90 minutes, Zwane’s creativity could be decisive.
On the other side, Al Ahly might be without key defenders Yahya Attiat Allah and Ali Maaloul, who missed the first leg and remain doubtful.
Sundowns defender Divine Lunga is confident the 75,000-strong Cairo crowd won’t faze them, citing the international experience within their squad.
Match Predictions & Betting Tips For Al Ahly vs Mamelodi Sundowns
| Market | Tip | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | Draw or Al Ahly Win (1X) | Al Ahly’s home form and experience give them the edge. |
| Both Teams to Score (BTTS) | No | Sundowns have been solid defensively; Al Ahly also cautious in big matches. |
| Total Goals (Over/Under 2.5) | Under 2.5 Goals | Tight recent history and first-leg stalemate suggest few goals. |
| Correct Score | 1-0 to Al Ahly | Likely to be decided by a single moment of brilliance. |
| Anytime Goalscorer | Mahmoud Kahraba (Al Ahly) | Threatened in the first leg and had a goal disallowed. |
| Qualification Winner | Al Ahly to Qualify | Greater pedigree and home support could see them edge it. |
Betting Tips Summary
- Safe Bet: Under 2.5 Goals
- Value Bet: Draw at Full-Time
- Risky Bet: 1-0 Correct Score to Al Ahly
- Goalscorer Pick: Mahmoud Kahraba
Will Al Ahly book a third straight final, or can Sundowns finally break the semi-final curse? The Cairo cauldron will provide the answer.
Related article: Mamelodi Sundowns Reach CAF Champions League Semi-finals After Goalless Draw Against Espérance
