Stellenbosch FC, Mamelodi Sundowns & Orlando Pirates ambitions in Caf Champions League & Confederation Cup as final berth is in reckoning for PSL outfits

In a highly anticipated encounter, Sundowns are set to face off against their long-time rivals, Al Ahly, in a matchup that carries both history and intrigue. Though the two teams have crossed paths countless times, Masandawana hold the upper hand after a memorable victory over the Egyptian giants in Cairo back in 2022. In fact, Al Ahly has never been able to defeat Downs on South African soil, adding a sense of invincibility to the hosts' home advantage.

This rivalry, which traces its roots back to 2001 when Al Ahly triumphed over Sundowns in a two-legged final, now presents Miguel Cardoso's side with an opportunity to turn the tables at a crucial stage of the competition. While Al Ahly remain the undisputed kings of African football, with a remarkable dozen Champions League titles and four wins in the last five finals, Downs are determined to prove their mettle. For the Brazilians, seizing the early initiative will be key - scoring early could tip the scales in their favor and shift the momentum in this high-stakes battle.

The Buccaneers are under immense pressure to secure a victory in their upcoming clash, as they strive to reach their third Champions League final. After years of absence from the prestigious competition, the Buccaneers are determined to make a powerful statement on the continental stage. Their eyes are firmly set on clinching a second Champions League title, aiming to outpace their rivals, Sundowns, who currently hold one.

For head coach José Riveiro, this is more than just a game - it’s an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy at the club, having already built a reputation as a cup specialist. But will he go out with a bang? With Masandawana looking like strong contenders for the final, Pirates are equally hungry to be part of what could be a historic all-South African final, a first for African football. The stakes couldn't be higher, and the Pirates are ready to rise to the occasion.

Stellenbosch are gearing up for a high-stakes encounter against Tanzanian giants Simba, who are led by South African coach Fadlu Davids. Having been narrowly defeated 1-0 in the first leg, Stellenbosch know that they face a tough challenge, but they won't go down without a fight. The Cape Town-based side is determined to prove their worth as they chase a historic first continental final, aiming to become just the third South African club to reach the Caf Confederation Cup final, joining the ranks of Pirates and SuperSport United.

With the away goal rule in play, Steve Barker's men have a narrow 1-0 deficit to overcome, meaning they must score at least once while keeping a clean sheet to avoid the agony of penalties. At this stage, Stellenbosch have nothing to lose - having already exceeded expectations as one of the smaller teams in the PSL, they are ready to defy the odds and make a name for themselves on the African stage.

Khoza's dream of witnessing an all-South African Champions League final has never felt closer to reality. For years, it's been a distant hope - but now, with both Sundowns and Pirates within touching distance of the final, that vision could finally come to life. Such a historic showdown would be monumental for South African football, a true showcase of the nation's rise on the continental stage. And if Stellenbosch were to join the party by reaching the Confederation Cup final, it would mark an unprecedented era of dominance for the country across both major African competitions. But dreams demand execution.

For Khoza’s vision to materialize, Masandawana and Pirates must deliver under pressure - any scoring draw or outright win will see them through to the final. Stellenbosch, meanwhile, have the trickiest task: they must keep a clean sheet and win by a healthy margin to overturn their narrow first-leg deficit. The road ahead is steep, but the reward is legacy-defining. The stars are aligning, and South African football stands on the brink of history.

Friday

Al Ahly vs Mamelodi Sundowns

Kick-off: 19:00

Venue: Cairo International Airport

First-leg result: 0-0

Pyramids FC vs Orlando Pirates

Kick-off: 20:00

Venue: 30 June Stadium-Cairo

First-leg result: 0-0

Sunday

Stellenbosch vs Simba

Kick-off: 15:00

Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium

First-leg result: 1-0 to Simba

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