“Masandawana get the job done in Tunis after a massive away performance 💪” This statement from Mamelodi Sundowns FC encapsulates the essence of their recent triumph over ES Tunis in the CAF Champions League semi-final first leg, held at the Stade Olympique Hammadi Agrebi in Tunis.
The match concluded with a score of 1-0, thanks to a goal from Brayan Leon in the 51st minute. This victory marks an important step for Sundowns as they aim to reach the CAF Champions League final for the second consecutive season.
Despite playing in front of a hostile crowd, Mamelodi Sundowns managed to secure the win, showcasing their resilience and tactical prowess. The match took a turn in the 84th minute when Grant Kekana received a red card, leaving Sundowns to finish the game with ten men.
Historically, this encounter adds to the competitive rivalry between the two teams, with ES Tunis having won four out of ten previous matches against Sundowns, who have secured two victories and drawn four times.
Last season, Sundowns eliminated ES Tunis in the quarter-finals, and they are now looking to repeat that success. ES Tunis, on the other hand, has not lost at home since May 2023, making this away victory even more significant.
The return leg is set for April 18, 2026, at Loftus Stadium, where Mamelodi Sundowns will aim to maintain their lead and secure a spot in the final. The aggregate winners will advance to face either ASFAR or RS Berkane.
As the teams prepare for the second leg, the pressure mounts for both sides. Mamelodi Sundowns will look to build on their recent momentum, having won ten consecutive league matches, while ES Tunis will aim to leverage their home advantage to overturn the deficit.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the impact of Kekana’s red card on Sundowns’ strategy for the upcoming match. The stakes are high, and both teams will be eager to secure their place in the final.
