Mamelodi Sundowns advanced to the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League after overcoming Young Africans on penalties.
CAF Champions League
Result: Mamelodi Sundowns 0-0 Young Africans (Sundowns won 3-2 on penalties)
Date: 05 April 2024
Venue: Loftus Versfeld
Sundowns made only two changes to the side that played to a goalless draw in the first-leg, as Themba Zwane returned from suspension while Aubrey Modiba was recalled.
Yanga made things difficult for the Brazilians from the first whistle, as they closed them down quickly when they entered their own half and did not allow them spaces in and around their box.
Rulani Mokwena's charges only dominated possession in the areas that were threatening the visitors as they had their first shot in anger around the half-hour mark after Lucas Ribeiro Costa fired a shot wide from the edge of the box.
The Tanzanian giants were looking to capitalize on counter-attacks and had their first moment in attack from a transition a few minutes later after Joseph Gnadou threatened with a shot that flashed just wide.
As spaces began to open up, Thembinkosi Lorch had a big chance just before the interval to break the deadlock after going through unmarked in the box but his low shot was saved by shot-stopper Djigui Diarra in a one-on-one situation.
The game continued to be lively from the break as ten minutes in, Peter Shalulile had a chance to break the deadlock for the Brazilians with a header that was smothered by Diarra.
Yanga remained a threat on counter-attacks and on the hour-mark, Aziz Ki produced the fireworks after his volley came off the underside of the crossbar and seemingly went in just over the line and bounced back into the play.
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) got involved and did not find conclusive evidence that the ball completely crossed the line.
Both sides showed the intention to break the deadlock and Clement Mzize had a great chance for Miguel Gamondi's men eight minutes before time after a square pass by Ki but he side-footed his shot wide, unmarked in the six-yard box.
The game was on the edge in the dying minutes and Teboho Mokoena almost snatched the winner for Masandawana with a first-time shot that flashed wide.
The sides went straight to penalty shootouts after a goalless draw.
Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was the hero, as he saved two spot-kicks, as the Brazilians won 3-2 on penalties and qualified for the semi-finals.
Here's how they lined up:
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams, Kekana, Mudau, Lunga, Modiba, Mokoena, Lorch, Allende, Zwane, Ribeiro, Shalulile
Subs: D.Onyango, Sirino, Mendieta, Aubaas, Mkhulise, Morena, Maseko, Mvala, Maema
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