Mamelodi Sundowns cautioned ahead of decisive Caf Champions League return leg against Al Ahly - 'Scoring a goal in Egypt will be very difficult'

Former Bidvest Wits striker Lucas Sebona explains why Mamelodi Sundowns could be easily knocked out by Al Ahly in the Caf Champions League.

The Brazilians are set to face Al Ahly in the second leg of the semi-final, and Sebona says the Premier Soccer League heavyweights are disadvantaged in a number of areas.

The first leg ended in a goalless draw, although Al Ahly scored twice but had their goals overturned.

"Their attack against Al Ahly lacked aggression, and the pace of play was too uniform.  They are now well-known, which is another factor to consider. Their style has been figured out by opponents," Sebona said, as quoted by KickOff.

"North African teams understand how to press collectively, not just as individuals. They are employing similar tactics to what Sundowns are using. 

"Ball retention needs to be quicker than ball possession. Once they lose the ball, they must press immediately. The Sundowns coach's style is too similar to that of the North African teams.

"I predict the second leg will also end in a 0-0 draw and be decided by penalties. Scoring a goal in Egypt will be very difficult. The home team's players are always highly focused and bring their best to the game. 

"I'm a Sundowns supporter, but I must admit that their chances are quite slim," he added.

The return leg is expected not to be an easy task for Sundowns not only because they are facing Al Ahly at their turf but because the Egyptian giants are perennial winners in the Champions League. So they are more experienced than their rivals when it comes to this competition.

Massive support from the fans is set to play a vital off-pitch role as Al Ahly hope to make it to another final appearance in Africa's premier club competition.

However, Sundowns will be keen to fight to win and prove their doubters wrong.

After the elimination from the Nedbank Cup campaign, the Tshwane giants are eager to make sure they are successful in the two competitions they are still in the hunt for trophies: the PSL and the Champions League.

The blockbuster second leg showdown will be held at the Cairo International Airport on April 25.

Thereafter, the next assignment for Miguel Cardoso's side will be a league match against Richards Bay on April 30.