Mamelodi Sundowns played to a goalless draw in their first-leg CAF Champions League clash against Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly.
The match, held at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in the capital city, saw Sundowns almost fall behind before halftime when a first-time header struck the upright with goalkeeper Ronwen Williams well beaten.
The Brazilians, managed to contain the Red Devils’ threat in the second half with a balanced approach, and the match ended with neither side breaking the deadlock.
Meanwhile, across the province in Johannesburg, Orlando Pirates were also held to a draw by another Egyptian side, Pyramids FC — thanks largely to VAR.The Soweto giants were rescued twice by video review on a night when they struggled to unlock the Egyptian defense.
The Buccaneers hosted the North African visitors at FNB Stadium for the first leg of their tie, both sides eyeing a spot in the CAF Champions League final.
Pirates fell behind on the stroke of halftime when Fiston Mayele capitalized on a defensive error by Mbekezeli Mbokazi. However, the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR check.
Late in the game, Pyramids thought they had scored again through Soudiq Ougla, but VAR intervened once more, disallowing the goal for a handball in the build-up. The match also ended goalless.
Both Sundowns and Pirates will travel to Egypt for the decisive second legs of their respective CAF Champions League ties against Al Ahly and Pyramids.The return matches are scheduled for Friday, 25 April.