Hope International Overview

No excuse! Cardoso explains why Stade Malien outclassed Sundowns in CAF CL

Despite an away loss in Bamako, Downs managed to book a ticket in the semi-final of the inter-club competition. A healthy cushion achieved in the first leg was enough to propel the Pretoria heavyweights, whose continental dreams remain alive. Masandawana now focus on the next opponent amid pressure from Orlando Pirates at home.

Mamelodi Sundowns, Stade Malien, March 2026

Stade Malien 2-0 Sundowns: 'Soweto giants' fans will not understand! How much did Khoza buy this game for?'

Masandawana booked a place in the next phase of the competition despite going down in Bamako. This means the Premier Soccer League heavyweights' dream of a second continental star lives on. However, their inconsistency will make their ability to go all the way and conquer Africa questionable.

Pirates open gap over Sundowns as Chiefs win ahead of Soweto Derby

Just like in the Premier Soccer League, the Sea Robbers and Masandawana are in a tight race for the trophy in the reserve competition. Defending champions Amakhosi face an uphill task of reclaiming the title won in a historic landmark last season, as they are far behind the leading sides. After winning their respective matches, the Soweto giants are heading into the highly anticipated derby clash next weekend.

ES Tunisia - Al Ahly CAF Champions League 2025-2026

Al Ahly out! Sundowns to face Cardoso's old club in CCL semi finals

The CAF Champions League landscape has been blown wide open following a night of high drama in Cairo that saw heavyweights Al Ahly and defending champions Pyramids FC crash out. The Brazilians will now face Miguel Cardoso's former side, Esperance, in the last hurdle before the final.

Stade Malien vs Sundowns Preview - Kick-off time, TV channel & squad news

The Tshwane giants will be aiming to finish the job they started at Loftus Versfeld Stadium a week ago and book their place in the semi-finals. However, it’s far from a foregone conclusion, with the Malian outfit banking on home advantage to mount a spirited comeback.

I promise you that we are going to win the match: Stade Malien coach dares Sundowns

The Brazilians are in West Africa as they continue their quest to lift the continental trophy for the first time since 2016. After finishing as losing finalists in this competition last season, they are determined to go one step further this time around. With that painful memory still fresh, they are pushing hard to turn last year’s disappointment into continental glory.