The potential of a historic all-SA last within the CAF Champions League now seems to be much more probably after Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates achieved beneficial outcomes from their first-leg quarterfinal victories on Tuesday.
Knocked out by Esperance within the semifinal final yr, Sundowns exacted revenge on the Tunisian facet by beating them 1-0 at Loftus Versfeld. Profitable by the odd aim is just not a assured path to the semifinals, with the second leg set for Tunis subsequent week, however it’s a fantastic benefit to have.
It’s a pity the recreation was marred by post-match violence, which noticed supporters from either side throwing missiles and inflicting injury to sections of the stadium.
That hooliganism was uncalled for, and must be condemned, particularly because the match was performed in an excellent spirit by each groups. It appears there wasn’t ample safety on the stadium to take care of the fracas. It may have turned nasty, and we must be grateful there have been no critical accidents or fatalities reported.
We name on CAF to analyze and, the place doable, challenge fines or bans to followers who had been culpable.
In Algiers, the place Pirates confronted hosts MC Alger, spectators appeared well-behaved regardless of the SA facet gorgeous their hosts 1-0. It’s an enormous consequence for Pirates, who stay unbeaten on this season’s Champions League. A clear sheet at Orlando Stadium subsequent week ought to ebook them their first Champions League semifinal slot in 12 years.
Whereas we applaud Sundowns and Pirates, we’re conscious the Brazilians’ technical workers weren’t too impressed with their schedule, which pressured them to play Sekhukhune United in a Nedbank Cup quarterfinal match final Friday. “This match shouldn’t have occurred,” Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso moaned, and rightly so.
We urge the PSL to be thoughtful when scheduling groups who’re flying our flag on the continent. The programme is messy already, thanks in the primary to the long-running Royal AM saga, however that may’t be an excuse for groups who’re taking part in CAF competitions to be additional burdened by extra fixtures, which may compromise their efficiency.
We congratulate Sundowns and Pirates, however as their coaches, Cardoso and Jose Riveiro, identified, Tuesday’s matches had been solely the primary halves. We hope they full the job within the second halves subsequent week.
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