Al Ahly vs Sundowns: "A new story had to be written," Miguel Cardoso

The Mamelodi Sundowns clinched their qualification for the CAF Champions League final against Al Ahly this Friday in Cairo, following a draw (1-1) validated by the away goals rule. The South African club will compete in the tournament final for the third time in its history.

Playing on the turf of the Egyptian giants, the South African players had to demonstrate exemplary resilience. Trailing from the first half after a splendid goal by Taher Mohamed (24th minute), they did not succumb to the pressure from the Cairo International Stadium crowd. Inspired by the vision of their new coach Miguel Cardoso, the Sundowns found the resources to equalize at the very end of the match, through an own goal by Yasser Ibrahim (90th minute).

Following this performance, the Sundowns' coach and former Al Ahly manager shared his insights.

"Confidence, confidence, without a doubt, confidence in how we experienced this journey together, confidence in each one's quality, confidence in the game plan we developed for the match, confidence that even after 1-0, we could score," said Miguel Cardoso.

The Portuguese technician emphasized the importance of mentality and mutual trust to overcome the immense obstacle that Al Ahly, twelve-time CAF Champions League winners, represented.

"Having confidence that whatever happened in the past, a new story had to be written today and trusting a club that supports us and gives us the conditions to work hard, and trusting our families at home who give us love, our supporters in South Africa, the brotherhood, we have confidence."

The final against Pyramids, scheduled for May 24 and June 1, will be an opportunity for the Sundowns to clinch a second continental title, following their last triumph in 2016.

Lydiane N'Po |

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Sports journalist specializing in African football, covering football news, exclusive stories and digital content for passionate fans of the game.