Zuko Komisa
- Sundowns advanced to the semi-finals 3-2 on aggregate despite losing the second leg 2-0 to Stade Malien.
- The visitors conceded a headed goal in the opening minute and trailed 2-0 by half-time following defensive lapses.
- Aubrey Modiba was sent off in the 77th minute, forcing a late defensive reshuffle to protect the slim aggregate lead.
Mamelodi Sundowns secured their spot in the CAF Champions League semi-finals on Sunday night, progressing 3-2 on aggregate despite a disjointed 2-0 second-leg loss to Stade Malien.
The Pretoria side endured a difficult evening in Bamako, nearly surrendering their first-leg advantage during a sluggish opening half.
The South African champions were caught cold at the Stade 26 du Mars, conceding just sixty seconds after kick-off.
A lapse on the left flank allowed the Malian hosts to head home an early opener, immediately unsettling the visitors.
While Sundowns dominated possession, they lacked their trademark clinical edge; Nuno Santos saw a half-volley saved, but clear-cut chances remained rare as the team appeared uncharacteristically sluggish.
Khuliso Mudau provided a crucial clearance to deny the hosts, ensuring that despite the match result, the aggregate scoreline remained in Sundowns’ favour.
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