A numerically disadvantaged Mamelodi Sundowns side managed to hold Wydad Casablanca in Saturday night’s Caf Champions League encounter.
- Maema and Allende were sent off
- Nine-man Masandawana frustated Wydad
- Downs will face off with Maritzburg
WHAT HAPPENED?: The two teams played to a 0-0 draw in a semi-final first-leg clash played at Stade Mohamed V in Morocco.
Sundowns took the lead in the 10th minute when Peter Shalulile netted with a low shot, but the goal was disallowed after a VAR check.
The visitors were then reduced to 10 players in the 43rd minute when Neo Maema was sent off for unintentionally landing on Amine Aboulfath with his right foot.
The Red Castle piled pressure on PSL champions and the visitors were reduced to nine players in stoppage time when Marcelo Allende was sent off for a dangerous challenge.
However, Sundowns were able to contain the Wydad who were frustrated by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and his defence on the night.
PHOTOS:
THE BIGGER PICTURE: Coach Rhulani Mokwena’s side kept a clean sheet on the road and they now bank on their home-ground advantage in the second-leg clash on May 20.
Masandawana are undefeated in their last 11 home matches in Africa’s biggest club tournament – winning nine games and drawing two.
The winner between the two teams will face either Egypt’s Al Ahly or Tunisian champions Esperance de Tunis in next month’s two-legged final.
Maema and Allende will both the semi-final second-leg clash and final first-leg encounter if Masandawana reach the final.
WHAT IS NEXT FOR SUNDOWNS?: The Tshwane giants will play host to top Maritzbitg United on Tuesday.
Sundowns will be looking to end a successful 2022-23 PSL campaign with a win at Loftus Versfled Stadium.
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