Sundowns champion of AFL- Will the Brazilians do it as the first champion?

 Sundowns champion of AFL Will the Brazilians do it as the first champion?

 Mamelodi Sundowns Secure Spot in 2023 African Football League Final with 1-0  Over Al Ahly

In a thrilling contest, Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrated their qualification for the 2023 African Football League (AFL) final, sealing a 1-0 aggregate triumph against Al Ahly. The South African side successfully defended their slim lead from the first leg and narrowly survived a late penalty scare during the second leg.

The standout performer of the match was Sundowns' goalkeeper, Ronwen Williams, whose heroic efforts included a crucial penalty save against Ali Maaloul in the eighth minute. Williams exhibited his goalkeeping prowess by denying former Sundowns star Percy Tau on two occasions

Williams' exceptional display emphasized why he's a nominee for the prestigious CAF Goalkeeper of the Year award.

Sundowns found themselves playing the final six minutes with ten men after substitute Junior Mendieta received a red card for a dangerous tackle. Mendieta had been on the pitch for just 13 minutes, having replaced captain Themba Zwane. Sundowns' coach, Rhulani Mokwena, introduced defender Mosa Lebusa to bolster the backline and safeguard their lead.

The match marked a significant moment with the first use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) in the tie. A handball by Sphelele Mkhulise in the box was reviewed, but VAR concluded that the infringement occurred outside the penalty area, resulting in no penalty.

The decision left Al Ahly visibly frustrated, and they struggled to breach Sundowns' resolute defense.

The upcoming final showdown will see Sundowns square off against Wydad Casablanca in a two-legged clash. The first leg will be hosted in Morocco this Sunday.

 Sundowns aims to clinch their first AFL championship and enhance their continental success, while Wydad seeks to avenge their loss to Al Ahly in the Caf Champions League last season.