Al Ahly vs. Sundowns: South Africans celebrate as lucky Brazilians stun Red Devils to reach CAFCL final

Mamelodi Sundowns pulled off a dramatic upset in Cairo, securing a 1-1 draw against African giants Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League semifinal second leg to advance to the final on the away goals rule. 

Sundowns ended Al Ahly’s hopes of a third consecutive continental title, sparking jubilation among South African fans on Friday night.

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After a tense, goalless first leg in Pretoria, Al Ahly took control early in the return fixture at Al Ahly Stadium. 

The Egyptian champions, buoyed by a passionate home crowd, went ahead in the 23rd minute when Taher Mohamed fired home after a clever assist from Emam Ashour, putting Al Ahly on course for yet another final appearance.

Sundowns, nicknamed the Brazilians, weathered heavy pressure and a controversial VAR moment in the second half. 

A lengthy video review denied the visitors a penalty despite replays suggesting they had a strong case, with the referee ultimately waving away their appeals.

The turning point came late in the match when Al Ahly’s Yasser Ibrahim, who had earlier been involved in the penalty controversy, inadvertently scored an own goal, handing Sundowns a precious away goal. 

That strike proved decisive, as the 1-1 draw meant Sundowns progressed to the final on the away goals rule, with the aggregate score locked at 1-1.

With this result, Sundowns dashed Al Ahly’s dreams of a record-extending CAF Champions League win and now await their opponent in the final as they chase continental glory. 

The result marks a historic achievement for the South African side, who overcame one of Africa’s most decorated clubs in their own backyard.