Mamelodi Sundowns are one step closer to the African Football League final after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Al Ahly in the semi-final first leg at their hallowed Loftus Versveld home on Sunday evening.
Coach Rulani Mokwena has revealed the one element that will leave Al Ahly with sleepless nights ahead of the second leg in Cairo.
Despite the impressive win, Mokwena and his men are under no illusions that the job is over.
The Brazilians have taken matters into their own hands, with an away goal almost guaranteeing their passage to the African Football League final. Mokwena believes that the knowledge of Sundowns having an away goal in Cairo has caused frustration amongst Al Ahly players.
“We’ve got a goal in Cairo, and we know that and they know that also. I think that stresses them a lot. The message that they got is that they know Sundowns have got a goal in Cairo and you could see a little bit of frustration from the players when they walked off the pitch,” said Mokwena.
He added: “For us it’s half time and it’s going to be an interesting game. I think they also know that Sundowns have got a goal in Cairo – if not two…”
Mamelodi Sundowns will now travel to Cairo for the second leg of the semi-final, where they will take on Al Ahly at the Cairo International Stadium on Wednesday. Kick off is scheduled for 20:00 pm.