Al Ahly v Mamelodi Sundowns CAF Champions League Preview

The stage is set at As-Salam Stadium in Egypt on Saturday as Egyptian giants Al Ahly clash with Mamelodi Sundowns in CAF Champions League quarterfinal first-leg. This promises to be an entertaining match as both clubs are of the biggest in the African continent. But it also marks a first match where Ahly coach Pitso Mosimane faces his former side since joining Red Devils last year.

The Lab – Stats Centre

Al Ahly Form

Al Ahly is struggling with a mixed bag of results. In their last five matches, they have won twice, drew on two occasions, and suffered one loss against Ghazi El Mehalla. Their last match came against long-time rivals, Zamalek, at home on Tuesday which ended in a 1-1 stalemate with Al Ahly failing to close the gap on opponents as they lie in the second position two points adrift of Zamalek. But they have played two games less compare to the leaders. 

The team of the century is on a 32 game unbeaten run at home in the Caf Champions League. Their last defeat came back five years ago against Asec Mimosa. Home advantage is a big factor in this tie. Pitso Mosimane will bring much influence as he coached Sundowns for eight years so his understanding of the players and their style of play will be beneficial to the match. Lastly, the fact that Red Devils are defending champions that a morale boost for them to fight for their crown.

Sundowns Form

The Brazilians are on a very good run of form in the past five games. They sit comfortably in the league in first position with 57 points, seven points clear of the closest rivals Amazulu and they need one more win to be crowned champions for the record fourth consecutive time. 

Sundowns will bank on their good performances they have shown in the competition this year. The side cruised in their group consists of the sides like TP Mazembe and Belouizdad finishing on 13 points. Also, their away record in the competition is good winning three matches, one draw and lost one in their last five matches. The last time they lost was against Al Ahly in 2019.

Head to Head

The two sides have met six times with the first match dating back in 2007. Al Ahly dominates the fixture with three wins compared to one for Sundowns, which is the famous 5-0 thumping in the 2019/20 Caf Champions League at Lucas Moripe Stadium. The other two matches ended in a tie.

Prediction

Al Ahly is a tough opponent to beat at home and they will have revenge on their minds after suffering a 5-1 aggregate hammering to Sundowns the last time the two sides met in this competition. I predict 2-1 with for the home side.