Pyramids vs Mamelodi Sundowns took place at the 30 June Stadium, as both teams battled for three valuable points on Tuesday evening.
While both outfits gave everything they had to win, it was Rhulani Mokwena's men who emerged victorious in a tightly-contested clash.
Mokoena's goal the difference between the sides
Both teams met in Pretoria just over a week ago, where they played out a goalless draw in the reverse fixture. With that in mind, Pyramids were the favourites to win at home. However, it was the Sundowns who opened the scoring, as Teboho Mokoena found the back of the net shortly after the 15 minute mark.
In spite of his goal, it wasn't a particularly great half for Mokoena; as he picked up an injury, and had to be replaced a few minutes before half-time.
Masandawana dominated the first half, keeping two-thirds of the ball. They registered three total shots; two of those went on target, while the other was blocked. On the other hand, only two of Pyramids's seven first half shots went on target, with three blocked shots and two off-target shots.
Despite their best efforts, Pyramids' fortunes didn't improve in the second half. Although they had more of the ball in the second half (51%), only one of the Egyptian team's nine shots went on target. After 90 minutes, Pyramids had half as many shots as Mamelodi Sundowns, but Masandawana had more shots on target. The visitors were happy to sit back and defend their lead.
A massive 3 points for Bafana Ba Style away from home! 🔥
Pyramids FC 0⃣➖1⃣ Mamelodi Sundowns (17' Mokoena)#Sundowns #DownsLive #TotalEnergiesCAFCL pic.twitter.com/Zgvxoqo7r9
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) December 19, 2023
Where this result leaves both teams on the group table
We would like to point out that all four teams in Group A had accumulated four points after the first three rounds of matches. However, TP Mazembe defeated Nouadhibou by two unreplied goals a few hours ago, momentarily leading the group standings.
With today's victory, the Sundowns are back on top. While they're currently tied with second-placed TP Mazembe with seven points, Mokwena's troops are ahead on goal difference.
On the other hand, Pyramids are currently third on the Group A table with four points and a -2 goal difference, while Nouadhibou find themselves at the bottom of the table, with four points and a -3 goal difference.
There are two rounds of matches left to play in the CAF Champions League. The Sundowns will go on another road trip for their next game, where they'll meet Nouadhibou. They could potentially secure a place in the knockout stages with a victory.
This article was most recently revised and updated 1 year ago
