Mamelodi Sundowns had to put up a gallant fight after two red cards were given to Marcelo Allende and Neo Maema against Wydad Casablanca.
Despite playing with nine-man against the defending African champions, Sundowns held on to a goalless draw in Casablanca.
Neo Maema was first to get marching orders in the 43rd minute for what was adjudged a reckless tackle.
Marcelo Allende followed him for an early shower after another VAR review towards the end of the second half.
The straight red cards mean the two will miss the return leg of the semi-final in Pretoria on Saturday.
The Moroccans face the Brazilians at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, 21 May 2023, at 3pm.
FARPost looks at what the CAF rules on the red card say and whether the duo will return for the final if they win on Saturday.
Sundowns must win to progress to the final and avoid a draw with goals at all costs to stay.
WHAT THE CAF RULES SAY ON RED CARDS
According to the CAF Champions League regulations, “a player sent off the field by the referee is to be automatically suspended from playing the subsequent match of the club’s competitions without prejudice to other sanctions, which the Organising Committee might impose on him subsequently.”
Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena paid glowing tribute to his charges, saying they had put up a gallant fight to come off with a goalless draw.
“I’m proud of these players for their gallant performance in very difficult circumstances. They showed incredible work rate and tactical discipline as well as adaptation to a tough situation. They need a lot of appreciation these players because they were fantastic,” Mokwena said.
He believes that before the red card Sundowns had an upper edge. However, he warned his charges not to undermine their opponents when they visit Pretoria.
“It is never over. This is the Champions League, and we are still playing against a very good team with good players. It is only halftime. We have to keep our feet firmly on the ground and remain focused. We have a stadium that can push us in Pretoria, and we trust in the players to continue the good work,” added Mokwena.
Downs’ Moroccan defender Abdelmounaim Boutouil admitted Wydad would be tricky customers.
“We played a very high-level match and wanted to win. But after the red card, we had to implement new methods of play. We made a great effort and defended as a team. Now we will prepare for the return fixture, which will not be easy, but we will do our best to win,” said Boutouil.
Sundowns will be eager to book a place in their first final since winning the Cup in 2016 under Pitso Mosimane.
The Red Castle, on the other hand, will be seeking their second consecutive final.
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