Continental giants collide: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Al Ahly
The defining rivalry in modern African club football takes center stage once again as South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns face Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly in a mouthwatering semi-final clash that could reshape the continental hierarchy.
THE RIVALRY RENEWED
This marks their fifth consecutive meeting in the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League, with the history between these two sides filled with dramatic moments that have captivated the continent:
2019: Sundowns’ shocking 5-0 victory in Pretoria sent shockwaves through African football
2020-21: Al Ahly exacted revenge with back-to-back eliminations of the South African champions
2023-24: Sundowns won 1-0 at home and secured a valuable draw away in the group stage
The power struggle between these two has become symbolic: South Africa’s rising powerhouse versus Egypt’s established royalty. Modernism versus tradition. Technical innovation versus historic dominance.
TACTICAL CHESS: CARDOSO VS KOLLER
For Sundowns, under new Portuguese tactician Miguel Cardoso, the philosophy has shifted toward European pragmatism—tight defensive organization, disciplined transitions, and trust in the midfield double pivot of Marcelo Allende and Teboho Mokoena.
His meticulous planning will be put to the ultimate test against Marcel Koller, the Swiss maestro who has re-engineered Al Ahly into a ruthless unit that still leans heavily on their battle-hardened spine.
Mohamed El Shenawy’s commanding presence between the sticks and Ali Maâloul’s intelligence down the flank will be key for the defending champions.
KEY FACTORS
Sundowns have developed impressive defensive solidity this season, conceding just 3 goals in 8 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League matches. However, Al Ahly’s experience in semi-finals (record 14-time champions) gives them a slight psychological edge.
The first leg in Pretoria will be crucial, as Sundowns must build a substantial advantage before the challenging trip to Cairo—a venue that has traditionally been their downfall in this competition.
Look for Peter Shalulile to be the difference-maker with his clinical finishing—he’s netted 4 goals in this campaign already and thrives on the big occasion.
This is more than a semi-final. It’s a battle of pride, of nations, of redemption arcs and unfinished business. The ghost of Pitso Mosimane, the South African who led Al Ahly to continental glory against his former club, still looms large.
For Sundowns, this is a chance to truly bury the ghost of Cairo—a place that has long been a stumbling block. For Al Ahly, this is about reminding the continent who the real kings are.