WeeklySA_AdminFORAY: The Brazilians crush Stade Malien 3–0 in Tshwane to seize control of their quarter-final tie as Africa’s other giants prepare for decisive last-eight battles…
By Lehlohonolo Lehana
South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns have taken a significant step toward the CAF Champions League semi-finals after a commanding 3–0 victory over Stade Malien in the first leg of their quarter-final clash in Tshwane on Friday evening.
The result gives Sundowns a strong advantage ahead of the return leg in Bamako next week and places the Brazilians firmly in control of the tie.
Sundowns broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when defender Khuliso Mudau surged forward from the right flank and finished confidently to beat the goalkeeper and ignite the crowd at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Although the assistant referee initially flagged for offside, a swift Video Assistant Referee (VAR) review overturned the decision, allowing the goal to stand and handing the hosts a deserved 1–0 lead at halftime.
The visitors attempted to respond early in the second half, creating chances through Ousmane Coulibaly and Taddeus Nkeng, but Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams remained alert to keep the Malian side at bay. The Pretoria outfit doubled their advantage in the 54th minute when Brayan León converted from close range after a well-delivered cross by Nuno Santos.
Coach Rulani Mokwena’s side continued to dominate possession and attacking momentum, introducing Iqraam Rayners in the second half to maintain pressure on the visitors.
The substitution paid off in the 73rd minute when Rayners calmly finished from inside the penalty area after another incisive pass from Santos. The goal was briefly checked by VAR before being confirmed, sealing a comfortable 3–0 victory.
With three goals and a clean sheet, Sundowns now travel to Mali with a strong cushion as they seek to secure a place in the semi-finals of Africa’s premier club competition.
Meanwhile, the remaining CAF Champions League quarter-final first-leg matches will take place across the continent this weekend.
In one of the tournament’s most anticipated clashes, Egyptian giants Al Ahly will face Tunisian champions Espérance Sportive de Tunis in Tunis on Saturday night in a classic North African showdown.
Elsewhere, Moroccan club RS Berkane host Sudanese powerhouse Al Hilal, while defending champions Pyramids FC take on Moroccan military side AS FAR in another high-stakes encounter.
The quarter-finals are being played over two legs, with the winners advancing to the semi-finals scheduled for April.
For Sundowns, Friday’s emphatic result has already put them on the brink of the last four — but they will still need to complete the job in Bamako to keep their hopes of continental glory alive. – Fullview/Weekly SA Mirror
