Mamelodi Sundowns defied hostile crowds, laser distractions, and relentless pressure to secure a nervy 0-0 draw against Esperance de Tunis in the CAF Champions League quarter-final second leg on April 8, 2025. The result, combined with their 1-0 first-leg victory, propelled the South African giants into the semi-finals, where they will face defending champions Al-Ahly.
The clash at Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi was a test of resilience for Sundowns, who absorbed waves of attacks from Esperance while navigating a cauldron of noise and unsporting fan behavior, including green lasers aimed at players throughout the match.
Lucas Ribeiro nearly doubled the aggregate lead in the first half, cutting inside from the right and firing just wide of the post. Minutes later, Marcelo Allende unleashed a thunderous long-range strike that rattled the crossbar, leaving Esperance goalkeeper Bechir Ben Said rooted.
The Tunisian side thought they had leveled the tie in the 63rd minute when Achref Jabri lobbed Ronwen Williams after a long ball. However, VAR ruled the goal out for a marginal offside, sparing Sundowns’ blushes.
The Sundowns goalkeeper stood tall, making critical saves, including a first-half stop from a close-range Esperance corner and a brave clearance outside his box to thwart a counterattack.
Grant Kekana and Khuliso Mudau anchored a composed backline, intercepting crosses and blocking shots, while Teboho Mokoena shielded the defense with tireless midfield work.
Miguel Cardoso, facing his former club, set up Sundowns to absorb pressure and exploit gaps on the counter. Esperance dominated possession in the second half but struggled to break down a compact defense, resorting to speculative crosses and long balls. The hosts’ frustration grew as Sundowns’ substitutes, including Sphelele Mkhulise and Thapelo Maseko, added fresh legs to close out the game.
The atmosphere turned toxic at times, with lasers frequently disrupting play. Cardoso, however, remained unflappable, later stating, “I take boos and whistles as fear. We respect the fans, but we came here to do a job” .
A semi-final showdown with Al-Ahly, a rematch of the 2023 final, offers a chance for redemption. The Brazilians aim to secure their second Champions League title, last won in 2016.
The team’s defensive record remains unblemished in this year’s knockout stage, a testament to their tactical adaptability.
Elimination marks a bitter end to their 11-match unbeaten home streak in the competition. The Tunisian giants, who last won the title in 2019, must regroup after failing to convert dominance into goals over two legs.
Sundowns’ progression underscores their growing pedigree in African football. While Esperance lament missed opportunities, the South Africans showcased tactical discipline and mental fortitude under fire. With Al-Ahly looming, Cardoso’s men face a sterner test, but their ability to grind out results makes them genuine contenders for continental glory.
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