Sundowns book place in CAF Champions League final

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Mamelodi Sundowns secured their place in the CAF Champions League final after a 1-0 win over Espérance Sportive de Tunis at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, sealing a 2-0 aggregate victory.

Holding a narrow lead from the first leg, Sundowns delivered a controlled performance to book a second successive final appearance.

The decisive moment came in the 35th minute. Brayan León was fouled in the box by goalkeeper Béchir Ben Saïd and, although his penalty was saved, the forward reacted quickest to convert the rebound and extend Sundowns’ aggregate advantage.

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Espérance responded before the break and came close through Florian Danho, whose effort struck the crossbar, but Sundowns held firm.

The visitors increased the pressure after half-time, enjoying more possession as they searched for a way back into the tie. However, Sundowns remained organised defensively, limiting clear chances while looking to counter.

Ronwen Williams was rarely called into action, as the hosts maintained control and managed the tempo effectively. Sundowns also threatened late on, with Jayden Adams and Khuliso Mudau going close to adding a second goal.

Espérance were unable to find a breakthrough, as Sundowns’ defensive discipline ensured a comfortable finish to the contest.

The result sends the Pretoria side into their fourth Champions League final and keeps them on course for a second continental title.

Photo: Lefty Shivambu

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Dylan Johnson