Algiers, Algeria – (African Boulevard News) – Mamelodi Sundowns continued their quest for a second African title, beating CR Belouizdad 2-1 at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday to storm into the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League.
With goals from Peter Shalulile and Lyle Lakay, the South African side managed to see off their Algerian counterparts, CR Belouizdad. Despite a late goal from Amir Sayoud in the second half, CRB was unable to mount a comeback, and Sundowns held on for a deserved victory.
The result sees Sundowns progress to the last four of the competition, where they are set to face off against Moroccan side Wydad Casablanca, in what promises to be an enthralling tie.
Speaking after the game, Sundowns coach, Rulani Mokwena, praised his side’s resilience and character, particularly in the face of a determined CRB side.
“We knew that it was going to be a tough game, but we played with a lot of heart and determination. We knew that we had to be patient and wait for our chances, and thankfully we were able to take them when they came,” said Mokwena.
The game also saw Sundowns’ talismanic captain, Hlompho Kekana, make his 100th appearance in the continental competition, a remarkable achievement for the midfield maestro.
Looking ahead to the Wydad Casablanca game, Mokwena was full of confidence, but acknowledged the quality of their opponents, who are former Champions League winners.
“We know that Wydad are a very good team, with a lot of experience in this competition. But we will be ready for them, and we know that we have the quality to beat them,” he said.
The tie between Sundowns and Wydad promises to be a blockbuster affair, with both sides possessing some of the finest players on the continent. The first leg is set to take place in South Africa on the 18th or 19th of June, with the return leg in Morocco on the 25th or 26th.
If Sundowns are successful in overcoming Wydad, they will be just two games away from capturing their second CAF Champions League title, following their triumph in 2016.
