South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns have booked their place in the final of the CAF Champions League after a disciplined 1-0 victory over Tunisia’s Espérance Sportive de Tunis sealed a 2-0 aggregate triumph in their semi-final clash.
The decisive moment came in Pretoria, where Colombian forward Brayan León once again proved the difference-maker, scoring the only goal of the second leg in the 35th minute. León, who had also netted the winner in the first leg in Tunis, converted the rebound after his penalty was initially saved, ensuring Sundowns completed a professional job over the two legs.
The result confirms Sundowns’ growing dominance on the continent, as they advance to the CAF Champions League final for the second consecutive season and the fourth time in their history. Their latest run underlines their consistency at the highest level of African club football, having become regular contenders in the latter stages of the competition.
Esperance, one of Africa’s most decorated clubs, pushed for a response but were unable to break down Sundowns’ organised defence. The visitors came closest before half-time when an effort struck the crossbar, but the South African side maintained composure to see out the tie.
Sundowns will now turn their attention to the final, where they are aiming to secure a second continental title, having previously lifted the trophy in 2016. The two-legged final is scheduled for May, with the first leg set to be played in Pretoria before the return fixture away from home.
