The excitement is palpable as Al-Ahly of Egypt takes on Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa in the first leg of the CAF Champions League semi-finals on Saturday, April 19, 2025. This highly anticipated match is set to kick off at 3:00 PM Cairo time at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, and fans are eager to see if the reigning champions can maintain their stronghold on the prestigious title.
Al-Ahly, known as the "Red Devils," is looking to defend their title after winning the last two editions of the tournament. They qualified for the semi-finals by defeating Al-Hilal of Sudan with a solid performance, winning 2-0 on aggregate. The team is aiming to secure a positive result in this away game ahead of the return leg scheduled for April 25, 2025, at Cairo International Stadium.
In their quest for glory, Al-Ahly's coach, Marcel Koller, has opted for a strong lineup that includes Mohamed El Shenawy in goal, with a defensive line featuring Mohamed Hany, Ashraf Dari, Yasser Ibrahim, Ramy Rabia, and Mostafa El Ash. The midfield is bolstered by Ahmed Reda, Imam Ashour, and Marwan Attia, while Taher Mohamed Taher and Nyik Graidisha lead the attack. This formation reflects Koller’s strategy to balance defense while pushing for an attacking edge.
On the other side, Mamelodi Sundowns, who reached the semi-finals after defeating Esperance of Tunisia, are eager to avenge past defeats against Al-Ahly. The two teams have a storied rivalry, having faced each other 16 times in official competitions. Each team has won five matches, with six ending in draws, showcasing the intense competition between these two African giants. Sundowns will be looking to leverage their home advantage and capitalize on their fans' support.
The match promises to be a tactical battle, with both teams boasting skilled players capable of changing the game's dynamics. Coach Miguel Cardozo has named a lineup that includes Ronwen Williams in goal, supported by a defensive quartet of Modau, Kekana, Lebusa, and Mokoena. The midfield features Allende, Adams, and Shalulile, with Ribeiro Costa and Mativs providing attacking options.
As the players take the field, anticipation grows. The opening minutes see a cautious approach from both sides, with possession switching frequently. By the 15th minute, the match is still scoreless, with both teams probing for weaknesses in the other's defense. The crowd is electric, urging their teams forward.
In the 23rd minute, Al-Ahly mounts a promising attack, with Graidisha getting a shot off that goes just wide. The Red Devils are eager to take the lead, knowing that an away goal could be crucial in the tie. However, Sundowns respond with a spell of possession, trying to assert their dominance in the midfield.
As the first half progresses, both teams struggle to break the deadlock. The 34th minute sees no change in the scoreline, and the tension builds as fans from both sides chant and cheer. In a thrilling moment just before halftime, Graidisha rises for a header that strikes the post, sending a wave of gasps through the Al-Ahly supporters.
The first half concludes with the score tied at 0-0, leaving everything to play for in the second half. Koller knows that adjustments may be necessary to find a breakthrough against a resilient Sundowns side.
As the second half begins, the match remains tightly contested. Sundowns enjoy a brief period of possession but fail to create any clear-cut chances. Al-Ahly's defense, led by the experienced El Shenawy, holds firm under pressure. The tactical battle intensifies, with both coaches urging their players to take risks as the clock ticks down.
In the 55th minute, Sundowns push forward, looking to capitalize on an Al-Ahly mistake. However, the Egyptian side's defense remains resolute, thwarting any attempts to score. The match continues to ebb and flow, with both teams creating half-chances but lacking the finishing touch.
As the match approaches its final stages, the tension is palpable. Fans are on the edge of their seats, knowing that every moment could decide the outcome of this crucial encounter. The match remains scoreless, but the stakes are high as both teams vie for a crucial advantage heading into the second leg.
With the final whistle approaching, both teams are still searching for that elusive goal, but it appears that neither will manage to break the deadlock today. The match ends in a stalemate, leaving the tie finely balanced ahead of the return leg in Cairo.
Fans will be left to ponder what adjustments their teams need to make for the second leg. Al-Ahly will need to find a way to score at home, while Sundowns will be looking to exploit any weaknesses shown in the away match. The return fixture promises to be just as thrilling, with both teams eager to secure a spot in the final of the CAF Champions League.
As the players leave the pitch, the focus now shifts to the next encounter, where the stakes will be even higher. Will Al-Ahly continue their dominance in African football, or will Sundowns finally get the upper hand in this fierce rivalry? Only time will tell.
