Mamelodi Sundowns have secured a place in the CAF Champions League final after eliminating 12-time champions Al Ahly with a dramatic 1-1 draw at the Cairo International Stadium on Friday night.
Following a goalless stalemate in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld, the South African giants arrived in Cairo without a single shot on target from the previous game—but with quiet confidence. Their belief paid off in front of a raucous crowd of over 70,000 fans.
Al Ahly took the lead in the first half thanks to a thunderous strike from Taher Mohamed. Set up by midfield maestro Emam Ashour, Mohamed unleashed a powerful drive that rocketed into the top corner at Ronwen Williams’ near post—leaving the Sundowns goalkeeper with no chance.
Sundowns, under Miguel Cardoso, responded with intent. Lucas Ribeiro Costa, deployed in a false nine role, along with Thapelo Morena and Tashreeq Matthews, created moments of promise but couldn’t find a breakthrough.
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The hosts, known as the Red Devils, managed to contain Sundowns’ attacking threats for much of the match. Their pace and tactical discipline highlighted the fine margins that both coaches had predicted would define the tie.
Sundowns striker Rayners led the celebrations as Al Ahly fans had their hands on their heads. Photo Credit: X
But just when it seemed Al Ahly would progress, Iqraam Rayners forced an own goal from defender Yasser Ebrahim late in the second half—stunning the Cairo crowd. With the tie locked at 1-1 on aggregate, Sundowns advanced on the away goals rule.
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It marks Sundowns’ third appearance in a CAF Champions League final and their first since lifting the trophy in 2016—their sole title to date. Now, they stand one step away from adding a second star to their badge.
