Divine Lunga Shines as Mamelodi Sundowns Reach CAF Champions League Semi-Finals

After starting the first leg on the bench, Zimbabwe national team left-back Divine Lunga delivered a stellar performance on Tuesday evening, helping Mamelodi Sundowns secure a spot in the CAF Champions League semi-finals by eliminating Tunisian giants Esperance.

The second leg ended in a goalless draw, with Sundowns progressing on a 1-0 aggregate victory from the first leg. The match saw Sundowns survive a late scare when Esperance had a goal disallowed for offside following a thorough VAR review, adding to the tension of the evening.

Lunga was outstanding throughout the match, earning high praise from commentators for his performance. His contributions were critical to Sundowns’ solid defensive display, and he was instrumental in maintaining the team’s composure throughout the encounter. The former Golden Arrows defender put in a Man of the Match performance, making key clearances, executing perfectly timed tackles, and maintaining possession with simple two-touch play. He also contributed effectively during attacking transitions, helping to drive the ball forward when the opportunity arose.

Coach Miguel Cardoso, who opted to start Lunga after initially benching him for the first leg, must have been pleased with his decision. Lunga outshone Esperance’s attackers, particularly in the first half, and proved to be a crucial part of Sundowns’ defensive wall. Namibian international Peter Shalulile, who scored the decisive goal in the first leg, also impressed, as did Lucas Ribeiro and Marcelo Allende, with the latter coming close to scoring when he struck the crossbar just before halftime.

Esperance threatened early in the match through Youcef Belaili, but veteran goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was on hand to make a crucial save, keeping Sundowns’ hopes of advancing intact.

Now, Sundowns will face Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the semi-finals, as their quest for continental glory continues. With players like Lunga in top form, Sundowns will be confident in their ability to challenge for the prestigious title.