Mamelodi Sundowns comfortably progressed to the semifinals of the CAF Champions League after beating CR Belouizdad 2-1 (6-2 on aggregate) at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.
Sundowns dominated early on, with Neo Maema and Themba Zwane coming close to scoring, but it was Belouizdad who took the lead in the 24th minute through Sofiane Bouchar’s header.
Sundowns had a penalty appeal turned down by VAR, but they equalized just before halftime when Zwane’s shot deflected off a defender into the back of the net.
Sundowns extended their lead in the 49th minute when Thapelo Morena headed in a cross from Khuliso Mudau.
Sundowns had further chances to score, but they decided to manage the game and hold on to their lead.
Sundowns will now play Wydad Casablanca in the semifinals next month after Wydad Casablanca defeated Simba SC on penalties.
The win sees Sundowns progress to the semifinals of the CAF Champions League where they will face old foes Wydad Casablanca.
Sundowns will take on the Moroccan side in a two-legged tie next month, with the winner advancing to the final of the continent’s premier club competition.
The Brazilians will be looking to win their second CAF Champions League title after claiming their first in 2016.
The result is a boost for Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena, who has overseen an upturn in the team’s fortunes since taking over from Manqoba Mngqithi midway through the season.
Mokwena will be hoping to guide his side to further success in the coming weeks, with the Premiership title also within reach for the Pretoria-based outfit.
Sundowns currently sit second in the league, just two points behind leaders AmaZulu, with four matches remaining.
