PICK OF THE SPORT: Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns play high-stakes CAF Champions League semi-finals after goalless first legs, writes Dylan Bettencourt.
Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns are flying South Africa’s flag high on the continent this weekend as both sides prepare for a do-or-die second leg in the CAF Champions League semi-finals.
After goalless draws in the first leg, it’s all to play for as they travel to North Africa with a shot at reaching the final.
Pirates take on Egypt’s Pyramids FC in Cairo at 20:00. The Buccaneers have looked solid defensively, but they’ll need a spark up front to break through.
Sundowns face an even taller task in the form of Al Ahly. The 11-time champions are formidable at home, but the Brazilians have been here before. Kick-off is at 18:00, and if Sundowns can hold their nerve and nick a goal, a place in the final awaits. South African football fans, clear your Friday night – it’s going to be electric.
CAF Champions League Semi-final (2nd leg):
Friday, 25 April
Al Ahly vs Mamelodi Sundowns, 18:00
Pyramids vs Orlando Pirates, 20:00
➜ In the United Rugby Championship, the Bulls have a golden opportunity to cement their top-three status when they visit Glasgow Warriors in a mouth-watering top-of-the-table clash. Both sides sit on 54 points and share identical records, but only one can emerge as the frontrunner behind runaway leaders Leinster.
The Sharks, currently fourth, will be desperate to bounce back after their European exit when they take on Ulster. They can’t afford a slip-up with Benetton and Cardiff breathing down their necks. The Stormers, stuck in mid-table, face Benetton in what’s effectively a must-win if they’re to sneak into the play-offs.
Meanwhile, the Lions are playing for pride when they meet Connacht. Still mathematically alive, but they’ll need results elsewhere to fall their way.
United Rugby Championship – Key Fixtures:
Friday, 25 April
Glasgow Warriors vs Bulls, 20:35
Saturday, 26 April
Lions vs Connacht, 16:00
Stormers vs Benetton, 18:15
Ulster vs Sharks, 20:35
➜ In the FA Cup, underdogs Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest will be dreaming of Wembley glory, but Aston Villa and Manchester City stand in their way. Palace meet Villa on Saturday evening in what promises to be a cagey encounter, while Forest’s clash with City on Sunday could be anything but.
FA Cup Semi-finals:
Saturday, 26 April
Crystal Palace vs Aston Villa, 18:15
Sunday, 27 April
Nottingham Forest vs Manchester City, 17:30
Pictured above: Orlando Pirates.
Image source: @orlandopirates
