Sundowns reach AFL semis despite early red card in Petro stalemate

South African side Mamelodi Sundowns held firm to seal their spot in the African Football League (AFL) semi-finals despite being reduced to ten men in the opening minutes of their 0-0 draw with Petro Atletico on Tuesday.

Midfielder Mothobi Mvala was sent off after just two minutes to leave Sundowns facing an uphill task in front of their home fans.

But a heroic rear-guard display from the hosts kept Angolan club Petro at bay as they protected their 2-0 lead from the first leg.

Despite dominating possession, Petro could not capitalise on their numerical advantage or force a breakthrough.

Sundowns survived an onslaught after the break as their stubborn defence restricted the visitors to just three shots on target.

A goalless stalemate ensured the South Africans progressed to the last four 2-0 on aggregate.

Sundowns will now play fellow semi-finalists Al Ahly over two legs for a place in the final.