On-song Jayden Adams delivers as Peter Shalulile gives Mamelodi Sundowns narrow first leg Caf Champions League quarter-final win against Elias Mokwana's Esperance

Mamelodi Sundowns secured a narrow but vital 1-0 win over Esperance in the first leg of the Caf Champions League quarter-final game staged in Mzansi.

The defending Premier Soccer League champions dominated proceedings at Loftus Versfeld Stadium from the first whistle as their opponents employed a low block and relied on counterattacks.

After a goalless draw in the first half, things got better for Masandawana in the second period.

Creative South American Lucas Ribeiro played a beautiful ball from deep in the 54th minute, which was controlled well by in-form Jayden Adams. The 23-year-old teed Peter Shalulile for a fine finish.

Despite dominating the proceedings, Sundowns couldn't get another goal and will be aiming at getting a favourable result in a weeks time to advance.

South Africa international Jayden Adams is already showing why Sundowns went for his signature in the January transfer window.

The former Stellenbosch man bossed the midfield against an experienced opponent and eventually provided an assist.

He has three goals and an assist now for club and country in his last four outings across all competitions.

Esperance must have hoped Elias Mokwana would have an impact in his first return to South Africa after the Sekhukhune United exit.

However, Khuliso Mudau dealt with his Bafana Bafana international teammate, who ended the game with a yellow card.

Coach Miguel Cardoso and his charges will now be hoping to get the result they need away to make the semi-final.

The second leg is scheduled for April 8 in Tunisia.

It will be vital for the South African outfit to stay composed and ensure they get past the Beast of Africa and into the last four.