Cairo giants Al Ahly faced off against Mamelodi Sundowns, the 2016 winners, in Cairo, resulting in an exhilarating 2-2 draw. Ahly was still seeking their first Group B win in the 2022-23 CAF Champions League.
Despite missing a penalty, the Egyptian powerhouse managed to bounce back from a goal deficit and take a 2-1 lead. However, with just 10 minutes remaining, Masandawana’s substitute Thapelo Morena scored a powerful goal, allowing Sundowns to maintain their unbeaten streak.
At halftime, Sundowns secured a 1-0 lead thanks to Peter Shalulile’s goal, but in the second half, Ahly came back strong with goals from Mohamed Abdelomonem and Hussein El Shahat, taking the lead. Despite their home advantage, the Egyptians couldn’t hold on to their lead, and Sundowns managed to secure a valuable point away from home.
In the 34th minute, Sundowns’ Shalulile managed to break the deadlock, reaching to tap in a well-placed cross from Cassius Mailula from the left-hand side. Despite having an opportunity to extend their lead before the break, Shalulile couldn’t keep his header down from a cross by Aubrey Modiba.
Ahly struggled to create many clear opportunities, with Aliou Dieng missing the mark from close range. Meanwhile, Magdy Afsha also launched a half volley over the bar after a knockdown by Percy Tau.
After halftime, they returned with a renewed sense of determination, and within four minutes, they were presented with an opportunity to score after Tau was fouled in the box. Despite this chance, Mohamed Hanny’s penalty was saved by Ronwen Williams.
Despite their missed penalty, Ahly persisted and their efforts paid off in the 59th minute when Abdelmonem managed to convert a delivery from Ali Maaloul into a goal.
Ahly took the lead in the 74th minute when Elshahat scored a stunning goal, maneuvering past his marker inside the box and unleashing a powerful shot that left the keeper with no chance.
However, Ahly’s hopes of securing a victory were short-lived as Morena managed to score from close range just six minutes later, reacting quickly to a rebound off the post from Mailula’s shot from outside the box.
Sundowns remain at the top of the group with seven points, while Ahly was able to pick up their first point in two matches.
