WeeklySA_AdminDECISIVE PHASE: The Brazilians poised for gruelling showdown with Mali’s Stade Malien in the CAF Champions League quarter-final that forms part of Ides of March duels…
By WSAM Sports Correspondent
South African champions Mamelodi Sundowns will be aiming to take a decisive advantage when they host Mali’s Stade Malien in the first leg of their CAF Champions League quarter-final on March 13.
The Brazilians enter the tie as one of the tournament favourites, thanks to their balanced squad, tactical discipline and continental experience. Sundowns have consistently been among Africa’s most dominant sides in recent years and are widely admired for their possession-based style of play.
However, Stade Malien are unlikely to make life easy. The Bamako-based club have built a reputation for defensive resilience and physical intensity, often making visiting teams struggle in the hostile conditions of Malian stadiums.
Sundowns’ strategy will likely be to secure a strong home victory before the return leg in Bamako on March 22, where the atmosphere and travel demands could test even the most experienced teams. If Sundowns progress, they could face one of Africa’s biggest clubs in the semi-finals, with the winner of the Al Ahly vs Esperance tie waiting in the next round.
For the Pretoria side, the message is clear: take control at home or risk a difficult night in West Africa. Yet, Africa’s premier club competition enters its decisive phase this month with CAF having confirmed all dates and kick-off times for the last eight.
The quarter-finals feature a strong mix of traditional giants and rising contenders from across North, West and Southern Africa, highlighting the growing competitiveness of the continental tournament.
It promises several heavyweight clashes, headlined by a fierce North African battle between Egyptian giants Al Ahly and Tunisian champions Espérance Sportive de Tunis.
The first leg will be played in Tunis on March 15 at 21:00 GMT, with the return match in Cairo scheduled for March 21 at 19:00 GMT.
Defending champions Pyramids FC face a stern challenge against Moroccan military side AS FAR. Their first encounter will be played in Morocco on March 13 at 22:00 GMT, with the second leg set for March 21 at 16:00 GMT in Egypt.
Meanwhile, Moroccan outfit RS Berkane will begin their tie against Sudanese powerhouse Al Hilal on March 14 at 22:00 GMT, with the decisive second leg scheduled for March 22 at 16:00 GMT.
According to the tournament bracket determined during the draw in Cairo earlier this year, the winner of the Al Ahly vs Esperance tie will meet the victor of Mamelodi Sundowns vs Stade Malien in the semi-finals.
On the other side of the draw, the winner between AS FAR and Pyramids FC will face the team that advances from the RS Berkane vs Al Hilal match-up.
CAF has scheduled the semi-final first legs between 10 and 12 April, with the return fixtures taking place between April 17 and 19. The two-legged final will be staged in May, when Africa’s next club champion will be crowned.
With the schedule now confirmed, the race for continental glory intensifies as Africa’s elite clubs prepare for a decisive battle for places in the semi-finals.
Players to Watch
Lucas Ribeiro – Sundowns
The Brazilian playmaker has been central to Sundowns’ attacking creativity, capable of unlocking tight defences with clever passing and movement.
Teboho Mokoena – Sundowns
A midfield general known for his long-range shooting and control in the centre of the park. His set-piece ability could prove decisive.
Percy Tau – Al Ahly
The South African forward remains one of the most dangerous attackers in African football and will be key to Al Ahly’s chances against Esperance.
Youssef En-Nesyri – AS FAR
The Moroccan striker has been in impressive scoring form and will be a major threat against defending champions Pyramids FC.
