Our expert previews the tense second-leg CAF Champions League semi-final between Mamelodi Sundowns and Zesco United.
We’re heading into a nail-biting second leg, where Mamelodi Sundowns will welcome ZESCO United at Lucas Moripe Stadium, aiming to overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit suffered in Zambia. Despite that setback, Pitso Mosimane’s men are determined and motivated, ready to thrill their passionate home fans and carve their path to the coveted final.
The talismanic Khama Billiat has been a beacon for Sundowns, delivering an invaluable away goal that has kept their hopes alive. However, this team boasts more firepower and resilience, prepared to charge at ZESCO with full force. It promises to be a semi-final filled with drama and quality football. The Sundowns squad, affectionately known as the Brazilians, understand the gravity of this fixture and will be giving it their all. The sky truly is the limit here!
Match Details:
CAF Champions League | Saturday 24 September | Lucas Moripe Stadium | Kick-off: 19:00
Odds to Win in 90 Minutes
Mamelodi Sundowns 15/20 | Draw 5/2 | ZESCO United 34/10
Mamelodi Sundowns
Even after the tough loss in Zambia, Pitso Mosimane remains positive and confident about his team’s chances. He believes each match provides valuable lessons, helping Sundowns gain experience and maturity at the continental level.
“We’re growing as a team. It’s all about understanding African football at this level, and we’re becoming more experienced,” Mosimane shared.
This crucial week could define Sundowns’ destiny, as they gear up to battle for a place in the CAF Champions League final. Leonardo Castro continues to recover from injury, with Percy Tau stepping up admirably. Key players like Khama Billiat, Keagan Dolly, and Hlompho Kekana will need to bring their best form, especially when facing the threat posed by ZESCO.
Defensively, Sundowns aim to be watertight, requiring only a 1-0 win to progress. The defensive line-up includes Siyanda Zwane, Thabo Nthethe, Wayne Arendse, and Tebogo Langerman, backed by the experienced goalkeeper Denis Onyango.
With the MTN8 second leg against Chippa United scheduled midweek, Mosimane might rotate the squad, but Billiat remains confident of his team’s readiness.
“We are fighters; born to fight. Whatever challenge lies ahead, we face it head-on,” said Billiat, highlighting his commitment.
As a key figure in Sundowns’ impressive continental campaign and Zimbabwe’s AFCON qualification, Billiat’s impact will be vital in this high-stakes clash on home soil.
Zesco United
Zesco United powered to a commanding 2-1 first-leg victory in Zambia, taking immense pressure off. Jackson Mwanaza’s brace, including a towering header in the 54th minute, put ZESCO firmly ahead after capitalising on defensive lapses by Sundowns.
Besides Mwanaza, striker Jesse Were has been a thorn in Sundowns’ side throughout, constantly threatening their defence even if he didn’t find the net in the first encounter. ZESCO boasts several dangerous attacking talents capable of unsettling any defence.
However, Zesco’s away form raises concerns. Their single away victory in the Champions League campaign contrasts with Sundowns’ unblemished home record, signalling a tough challenge in Chloorkop.
Nonetheless, ZESCO supporters will be holding onto their 2-1 advantage, hopeful it’s enough to see their team through to the Champions League finale.
Expert Verdict: Back Sundowns to Win (15/20)
Pitso Mosimane’s Sundowns have an important away goal, providing a crucial edge in this fierce battle. While a 1-0 win will suffice, expect Sundowns to aim higher and seize victory within 90 minutes. ZESCO’s shaky away record and Sundowns’ fortress-like home form suggest the Brazilians are favourites. Support Sundowns to triumph in this thrilling knockout showdown!
Written by Jesse Nagel (@Hollywoodbets)
Ready to back your team? Place your bets now at Hollywoodbets.net! Don’t have an account? Register here and join the excitement!
