Former Mamelodi Sundowns shot-stopper and Orlando Pirates coach Roger De Sa believes the path to continental glory has never looked clearer for Mamelodi Sundowns as they gear up for the CAF Champions League semi-finals.
The Egyptian giants, traditionally the gatekeepers of this competition, are notably absent. With Al Ahly’s usual dominance interrupted and defending champions Pyramids FC out of the running, the map of the continent has been redrawn.
For Roger De Sa, a man who has navigated the high-stakes environment of a Champions League final, the current situation presents a significant opening. The question now is whether Sundowns are perfectly positioned to finally secure that elusive second star. The triumph will also end a decade-long wait for another continental crown for the Tshwane giants.
A RARE MASSIVE OPPORTUNITY FOR SUNDOWNS?
“It is quite a surprise to see no Egyptian representation in the final four,” De Sa told FARPost. Having served in technical roles across Portugal, Egypt, Qatar, and Iran, De Sa’s perspective is grounded in deep experience. “Given the standard Pyramids have set and the fact that Al Ahly are always expected to reach the latter stages, it’s a bit of an upset.”
However, while the Egyptian threat has receded, a new power has emerged from the Atlantic coast. With Moroccan duo RS Berkane and AS FAR joining Tunisia’s Esperance in the final four, De Sa notes that the challenge has simply shifted focus.
“The Moroccan sides were always going to be the ones to watch,” De Sa explains. “They are benefiting from a fantastic development programme that has been running for some time now. We saw the fruits of that with Morocco’s historic run to the FIFA World Cup semi-finals and the high-quality players they are producing. It’s no fluke; they are difficult to beat at home and are excellent travellers. It will be a massive challenge for anyone facing them.”
LESSONS FROM PIRATES 2013 CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE CAMPAIGN
De Sa is often credited as the coach who reignited South Africa’s competitive appetite for the continent. Before his 2013 run with Orlando Pirates, many local clubs viewed CAF competitions with hesitation. De Sa changed that narrative by guiding the Buccaneers to the final, proving that PSL sides could compete with the continent’s best. Now, he sees Sundowns standing at a similar threshold.
To reach the final, Miguel Cardoso’s side must first overcome the challenge of Esperance. Sundowns travel to Tunis on the weekend of 10-11 April for the first leg, before hosting the return fixture in Tshwane the following week.
“Esperance is not an easy trip,” De Sa warns. “In my experience with Pirates, we beat them in the semis. We managed a draw at home and edged them 1-0 away with a Rooi Mahamutsa goal from a corner. That is what it takes—staying disciplined and taking your chances. Esperance are always close to the trophy, and they will be motivated knowing the Egyptians are out.”
While the absence of familiar Egyptian opponents might seem like a relief, De Sa offers a veteran’s caution: sometimes the enemy you know is easier to plan for.
“Sometimes it is better to know the enemy like you do the Egyptian teams,” he says. “Now it is a change of focus to the Moroccans. They are tactically difficult to play against. But it is a good opportunity for Sundowns. Even if the Egyptian teams were still there, Sundowns were in with a good shout.”
THREE GAMES FROM GLORY: CAN SUNDOWNS BECOME SA’S FIRST TWO-TIME CAF KINGS?
Following a hard-fought 3-2 aggregate victory over Mali’s Stade Malien in the quarter-finals, Sundowns are now just three games away from potentially becoming the first South African club to hold two Champions League titles.
“Nothing surprises me anymore in Africa,” De Sa concludes. “But it’s a great opportunity. Let’s see if Sundowns can fly the flag and get us another star.”
The stage is set, and the traditional hierarchies have been shaken. Now, it is up to Sundowns to prove they are ready to reclaim their status as the kings of the continent.
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