Sundowns secure semi-final berth in TotalEnergies CAF Champions League
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Mamelodi Sundowns have clinched their spot in the semi-final of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League after a tense penalty shootout victory over Young Africans on Friday.
The South African giants had to dig deep to overcome their resilient Tanzanian opponents, with the match culminating in a goalless draw after extra time.
The dramatic shootout unfolded, ultimately ending 3-2 in favour of Sundowns.
Young Africans proved to be formidable adversaries, fiercely contesting every ball and frustrating their South African counterparts.
Despite relentless pressure from Sundowns, the Tanzanian side held firm, with goalkeeper Ronwen Williams particularly influential in keeping his team in the game.
A pivotal moment came in the 51st minute when Ivorian forward Joseph Guede squandered a golden opportunity to break the deadlock, failing to beat the vigilant Williams in a one-on-one situation.
Despite mounting pressure, Young Africans remained resolute, with their defensive line standing firm against waves of Sundowns attacks.
The deadlock persisted until the penalty shootout, where Williams emerged as the hero, saving two crucial spot-kicks to propel Sundowns to victory.
The triumph marks another milestone for Williams, who was named the best goalkeeper in the recent TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d'Ivoire 2023.
With their place secured in the final, Sundowns now await the winner of the clash between ASEC Mimosas and Esperance.
