The Loftus Versfeld Stadium will be the venue for the eagerly anticipated second leg of the CAF Champions League semifinal between Mamelodi Sundowns and Wydad Casablanca on Saturday afternoon.
In the first leg at Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca, the teams played out a goalless draw. Mamelodi Sundowns’ achievement in securing a stalemate was particularly impressive considering they played with ten men for over half of the match and ended with only nine players.
Neo Maema received a straight red card late in the first half, while substitute Marcelo Allende was sent off in injury time at the end of the game. Both dismissals were confirmed by VAR and deemed correct decisions.
While the goalless draw gives Mamelodi Sundowns a positive outcome, they must be cautious of the away goals rule, which only benefits Wydad Casablanca. Any score draw would see Wydad advance to the final.
However, Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena remains confident in his team’s ability to claim victory on home soil. He highlights the support of the fans, the experience gained by the players, and their discipline and tactical adaptability in challenging circumstances as reasons for his optimism.
Wydad Casablanca will be disappointed with their inability to seize control of the tie in the first leg, despite having a numerical advantage. They struggled to create significant scoring opportunities against goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and faced a well-organized and technically proficient Mamelodi Sundowns side.
Coach Sven Vandenbroeck acknowledges the challenge his team faces but expresses confidence in their ability to still qualify for the final.
Sudanese referee Mahmood Ismail has been appointed to officiate the match in Tshwane on Saturday afternoon.
The winners of the aggregate score will face either Al Ahly or Esperance de Tunis in the two-legged final scheduled for June 4 and 11.
