By Michael Madyira
Mamelodi Sundowns put up a lacklustre performance in their 0-0 draw with Young Africans in a CAF Champions League quarter-final first-leg match at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium on Saturday.
It was an uninspiring display by Masandawana, who struggled especially upfront against the Tanzanians who seemed to have read their game well.
The result leaves the Brazilians very cautious because a scoring draw in the second leg in Tshwane will eliminate them from the Champions League.
A repeat of Saturday’s performance next Friday could deny them this continental trophy for yet another season while handing Young Africans another chance for their first-ever Champions League title.
The home side went into battle without the Ivorian duo of defender Kouassi Attohoula and attacker Peodoh Zouzoua as well as Ugandan midfielder Khalid Aucho.
Sundowns were missing the services of captain Themba Zwane due to suspension while speedy winger Thapelo Maseko started from the bench after some time out injured.
It was a temperamental start to the match with both sides resorting to hard tackles. Egyptian referee Amin Omar was lenient enough not to dish out some yellow cards, though.
But the rough play led to the Brazilians being dealt a blow, costing them Bongani Zungu 13 minutes into the contest as he was replaced by Aubrey Modiba.
The opening half saw Sundowns make some sloppy errors. They were lucky not to be punished, mainly thanks to goalkeeper Ronwen Williams brilliantly saving the hosts’ long-range shots.
Masandawana’s first realistic chance came through Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s shot from a tight angle on 44 minutes, forcing Young Africans goalkeeper Djigui Diarra to make a significant save.
The visitors from Tshwane continued to find it hard upfront in the second half while the hosts were still a threat.
With 68 minutes having been played, Williams denied Clement Mzize in a one-on-one situation in what was his biggest save of the match.
Hopes of a Sundowns breakthrough came from setpieces and Teboho Mokoena narrowly missed the target with a well-struck stoppage time freekick.
Pictured above: The Mamelodi Sundowns trio of Aubrey Modiba, Teboho Mokoena and Divine Lunga try to trap a Young Africans player
Image source: Young Africans
