By Michael Madyira
Mamelodi Sundowns gave themselves a slim advantage going into the second leg of the African Football League semi-finals when they edged out Al Ahly 1-0 at Loftus Versfeld on Sunday.
Speedy winger Thapelo Maseko had the final say, with the all-important and beautifully struck goal seven minutes into the second half as Sundowns returned to haunt the Egyptian giants again.
South Africa has now become a tricky hunting ground for Al Ahly, who were beaten 5-2 by Masandawana in the Champions League earlier this year.
However, it will still be a tough task for the Brazilians to reach the final, as they have to defend their slender lead in the away leg on Wednesday.
Sundowns defender Mothobi Mvala was suspended following his red card against Petro Atletico last week, while Peter Shalulile and Lucas Ribeiro Costa remained sidelined by injury.
It was another match where the Brazilians had to show depth, with key men like Thapelo Morena, Bathusi Aubaas and Sipho Mbule still battling fitness issues.
Al Ahly were the first to make an attempt at goal with Percy Tau’s powerful shot forcing a save from Ronwen Williams as early as the third minute.
Later on, Marcelo Allende showed some great vision when he broke the lines to pick up Themba Zwane who nevertheless failed to control the ball with his chest with only goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy to beat at close range.
It was clear that Maseko had a goal in his legs, using some terrific speed, and he drew a spectacular save from El Shenawy with a headed effort just before the half-hour mark.
The Egyptian visitors were always struggling to make some meaningful forays into the hosts’ box for the better part of the first half.
Just after the restart, Aubrey Modiba agonised as his long shot went narrowly wide.
The big difference came when Maseko displayed some great control of the ball, finishing a Modiba feed from outside the box.
On 77 minutes, Ronwen Williams almost gifted Al Ahly with a free goal after watching his clearance of a back pass being blocked by Percy Tau, but he was quick to recover and collect the goal-bound ball.
Sundowns almost went two goals up deep into stoppage time, but substitute Bongani Zungu was denied by the upright.
Pictured above: Mamelodi Sundowns taking on Al Ahly at Loftus Versfeld.
Image source: Al Ahly
