South African government lauds performance of nation's clubs in CAF competitions

Mamelodi Sundowns celebrate during their CAF Champions League first leg victory over Tunisia's Espérance. Photo Credit: Mamelodi Sundowns

The South African government has congratulated Stellenbosch FC, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns for reaching the semifinals of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) elite club competitions.

The government has released a statement highlighting the achievements of the three Betway Premiership teams on Wednesday night.

"South Africa celebrates a proud achievement as three local teams—@Masandawana, @orlandopirates, and @StellenboschFC— make history by reaching the CAF inter-club semi-finals in the same season for the very first time!,” the statement reads.

"This milestone marks a shining moment for SA football and continental pride! @Government ZA applauds this incredible display of talent, teamwork, and determination!"

South African team AmaZulu FC have, through their president, Sandile Zungu, joined the bandwagon of those praising the feat of the three continental ambassadors.

“It is truly unprecedented to see three South African teams reaching this advanced stage in both the CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup,” he said.

“AmaZulu FC is inspired by this achievement and extends its best wishes to these teams as they continue their journey. We call on all South Africans to rally behind these outstanding ambassadors of our nation.”

Stellenbosch stunned Zamalek SC 1-0 in the CAF Confederation Cup quarter final second leg at the Cairo International Stadium on Wednesday to qualify for the last-four stage. The first-leg ended goalless.

It is a feat for Steve Barker's men who are participating in the competition for the first time. They have joined serial campaigners Pirates and Sundowns who are through to the CAF Champions League semi finals.

Pirates sailed past MC Alger 0-0 on Wednesday to qualify for the CAF Champions League semifinal 1-0 on aggregate with Sundowns, too, getting the better of Espérance Sportive de Tunis on a similar aggregate score.

It is the first time in some years that South Africa has had three representatives in the semifinals across both CAF club competitions. 

Sundowns will now face Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League semifinals whereas the Buccaneers take on Pyramids FC. Tanzanian giants Simba SC take on Stellenbosch in the last-four stage. 

Sundowns, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs are the only South African elite clubs to have won major CAF competitions.