Mamelodi Sundowns Take A Giant Leap Towards Caf Glory With Crucial Win Over Esperance

Easter is upon us and as such, Mamelodi Sundowns are on course to end their nine years of fasting regarding Africas holy grail, the CAF Champions League.

The match got heated in the end, though, as the supporters of Esprance and the Yellow Nation of Sundowns engaged in unsavoury exchanges in the far stands. Sundowns will be proud of the result, nevertheless, having taken a huge step towards recapturing continental glory by beating Esprance in this quarter-final, first-leg, clash on Tuesday afternoon.

Sundowns have had near misses in the competition in the past, losing back-to-back semi-finals in the last two seasons, but it could be third-time lucky for them this season. They produced a professional performance, inspired by a solo goal from Peter Shalulile, ensuring they take an important advantage into the second leg next week Tuesday.

Loftus has been Sundowns haven and their opponents hell. However, on their last visit here, Esprance were in seventh heaven, winning the semi-final 2-0 on aggregate. Sundowns were determined to restore the default setting against Esprance this time by appointing Miguel Cardoso and opting for a 3pm kick-off on Tuesday.

Cardoso was the mastermind behind Esprances win last season between the two clubs, while the heat of an afternoon kick-off and altitude favoured the hosts. Everything looked good on paper for the Brazilians to claim the win.