The stage is set for a CAF Champions League classic as Espérance de Tunis hosts Mamelodi Sundowns at the Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi in Radès, Tunisia, Tonight (21:00 CAT).
With a spot in the semi-finals on the line, this second-leg quarterfinal decider promises high drama. Sundowns carry a slender 1-0 lead from the first leg, but Esperance’s storied pedigree and home fortress make this tie delicately poised.
For Espérance, Africa’s most decorated club after Al Ahly, this match is a chance to reclaim continental dominance. The Tunisian giants, four-time Champions League winners (1994, 2011, 2018, 2019), are hungry to avenge last season’s final defeat to Al Ahly and prove their resilience under pressure.
Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns, South Africa’s 2016 champions, aim to solidify their status as a modern African powerhouse. A semi-final berth would inch them closer to their second title and validate their reputation as the “Brazilians” of African football.
Road to the Quarter-Finals
Espérance topped Group B with 13 points, edging Egypt’s Pyramids FC on goal difference. Their campaign included dominant displays, such as an 8-0 thrashing of Somalia’s Dekedaha SC in the qualifiers 13. Sundowns, however, stumbled slightly in Group A, finishing second with nine points—just one ahead of third-placed MC Alger. Their inconsistency raised questions, but a gritty first-leg win over Esperance reignited belief.
This rivalry has been defined by narrow margins. In their last four meetings, only three goals were scored, all ending in 1-0 wins for the side coached by Miguel Cardoso—formerly of Esperance and now Sundowns’ tactician.
Last season, Espérance eliminated Sundowns 2-0 on aggregate under Cardoso’s leadership, a subplot adding spice to this encounter.
Players to Watch
Peter Shalulile (Mamelodi Sundowns): The Namibian striker’s 54th-minute goal in the first leg separated the sides. His predatory instincts and work rate will be critical to Sundowns’ counterattacking strategy.
Mohamed Youcef Belaïli (Espérance): The Algerian winger is Esperance’s creative heartbeat. His dribbling and set-piece prowess could unlock Sundowns’ defense in a packed stadium
Marcelo Allende (Sundowns): The Chilean midfielder’s composure under pressure and ability to dictate tempo will be vital in neutralizing Esperance’s midfield dominance.
Achref Jabri (Espérance): The Tunisian forward must step up after his side’s toothless first-leg showing, where they failed to register a shot on target.
Returning to his former club, Miguel Cardoso downplayed the hostile reception: “I take boos as fear. We respect Esperance, but we’re here to win.” He faces selection dilemmas, with key players like Themba Zwane nearing fitness but unlikely to start. Expect Sundowns to prioritize defensive discipline and exploit gaps on the break.
Kanzari’s side thrives at home, unbeaten in their last six CAF matches at Stade Olympique. Despite recent domestic wobbles, he’ll rely on the crowd’s energy to fuel an aggressive, high-pressing game. “We’ve overturned deficits before. Our fans are our 12th man,” he asserted.
Espérance’s experience in knockout football—coupled with their home advantage—makes them slight favorites. A win would set up a semi-final against Al Ahly or Al Hilal, reigniting their quest for a fifth title.
Sundowns, however, are no underdogs. Their possession-based style (80% in the first leg) and Cardoso’s tactical acumen could see them through. Progressing here would mark a statement of intent, especially with Al Ahly looming as potential final opponents.
Prediction
Espérance 2-1 Sundowns (2-2 aggregate, Esperance via penalties)
Despite Sundowns’ resilience, Espérance’s home record and desperation to avoid another early exit might tip the scales. A tense, low-scoring affair could extend to spot-kicks.
This clash transcends a mere quarterfinal—it’s a battle of legacy versus ambition. Will Espérance’s continental pedigree prevail, or can Sundowns’ modern flair carve a new chapter? Tune in for 90 minutes (or more) of African football at it’s finest.
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