CAFCL: Sundowns disappoint against Al Ahly in semifinal first leg stalemate

South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns have work to do in Egypt next week after an uninspired performance on Saturday ended in a 0-0 first leg draw from the CAF Champions League semifinals.

nergetic Sundowns supporters were slowly drawn into silence in Pretoria after an excellent defensive performance by Al Ahly, who were missing a few key players due to injury. Ahly coach Marcel Koller altered his tactics to a more cautious formation and it created a puzzle that Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso and his vaunted Sundowns attack could not solve.

The best opportunity for the hosts in a dry first half arrived with a rasping drive from midfield maestro Teboho Mokoena, who struck his effort well but off target.

Ahly attacker Emam Ashour, easily the Man of the Match due to his constant running and high work rate, set up forward Nejc Gradišar for a header that hit the post with Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams rooted to the spot.

The frustration continued for Cardoso and his team in the second half. Forwards Iqraam Rayners and Arthur Sales were introduced around the hour mark but if anything, Sundowns were even less dangerous in a match that was highlighted by Cardoso being outcoached by his Ahly counterpart Marcel Koller.

Only one shot on target was recorded after halftime and it came from the visitors, who were more than happy with the result as they successfully killed the match off through defensive solidity and time wasting tactics.

The two teams will meet again next Friday in Cairo where Al Ahly will expect a capacity crowd at the Cairo International Stadium.