SPORT: Sundowns earn draw in Ivory Coast

The Pretoria side were greeted by a hostile crowd and an 'unplayable' pitch.

February 13, 2019

Eliot Mahlase 2 minutes read

Phakamani Mahlambi of Sundowns. Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns Facebook page

Mamelodi Sundowns are in a good position to reach the quarterfinals of the CAF Champions League after a goalless draw against ASEC Mimosas on Tuesday afternoon.

The Pretoria side won the first encounter in their hometown, but could only manage a draw in Ivory Coast.

The 2016 CAF Champions League winners went to the Ivory Coast knowing that a win would all but secure them a place in the quarterfinals.

Despite a hostile crowd, pitch conditions that were not ideal and being physically outmatched by the Ivorians, Downs created a number of chances in the first half.

Africa’s finest representing!👆#ForeverYellow pic.twitter.com/6bkmVdhL6I

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) February 13, 2019

Thapelo Morena, who was causing problems for the home side, nearly opened the scoring in the 23rd minute when put through by Temba Zwane, but his shot went wide.

At the start of the second half, Downs coach Pitso Mosimane replaced the Gaston Sirino with Argentinian star Emiliano Tade.

The latter’s famous goal on debut against ASEC Mimosas made him a fan favourite, but on Tuesday night he was unable to repeat his heroics.

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Although both teams had a chance to win the game towards the end, they had to settle for a draw.

Mosimane said he was satisfied with the result.

“It is never easy playing in Africa. ASEC Mimosas are a good team; we could have done better but a point is okay,” he said.

Sundowns are still second in their group after their rivals Wydad Casablanca were held to a goalless draw by Nigeria’s Lobi Stars.

Both Downs and Wydad have seven points from four games, but the Moroccans have a superior goal difference.

In another CAF game on Tuesday afternoon, Orlando Pirates suffered a 2-0 loss at the hands of Esperance of Tunis.

The Soweto giants are now third in their group and could be eliminated from the CAF competition should they fail to win their next game.

Sundowns will now face Polokwane City next week Tuesday as they look to chase Bidvest Wits for the PSL title.

That's it! Both teams share the spoils as they both walk away with a point. #Sundowns #DownsLive #DownsMimosas #CAFCL pic.twitter.com/b5Hnh6HnH2

— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) February 12, 2019