The 2025 Total Energies CAF Champions Leagues season roared back this Thursday, April 1, with a blockbuster curtainer in the Quarter-finals phase.
Mamelodi Sundowns were 1-0 winners over Espérance Sportive de Tunis in the first leg of Africa’s premier competition in Pretoria.
Namibian Peter Shalulile second half strike was the difference that separated the two giants at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Sundowns first attempt on goal came in the 16th minute, Mokoena stunning effort from a free kick was parried away by goalkeeper Ben Said for a corner.
The Brazilians had a dominant display onwards ahead of the visitors who fanced a preservative approach on the other hand.
Coming back from the break, the home team brought in Brazilian forward Arthur Sales in place of Morena to add more firepower at the front and possibly unlock the Tunisians.
Sundowns finally broke the deadlock 54th minute, Shaluile tapping home from Adams cross, the most defining moment of the contest at end of the final whistle.
This was a false start for the newly appointed Esperance head coach Maher Kenzari as Sundowns carry a slim advantage going into the return leg.
The other last-eight ties scheduled later today see record Champions Al Ahly up against Al Hilal, Orlando Pirates visit MC Alger while Pyramids confront Morocco’s AS FAR.
