Mamelodi Sundowns experienced frustration after a goalless draw against AS Maniema Union from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in their CAF Champions League debut at Loftus Stadium on Tuesday.
The match started with Sundowns asserting control over possession, as expected, while Maniema adopted a tight formation, aiming to hinder Sundowns’ central gameplay and make the most of counter-attacks.
The visitors had to make an early substitution in the eighth minute, bringing on Kanu Jonathan for Mola Otinga due to a muscle injury.
In the 15th minute, Lucas Ribeiro Costa nearly broke the deadlock with a long-range shot intended to surprise Efonge Brudel, but the goalkeeper made an essential save, conceding just a corner.
A short while later, Teboho Mokoena took a remarkable free-kick from the edge of the area aimed at the top corner, but Efonge was on hand to deny him.
Marcelo Allende had the final chance of the first half, but it required just a simple save from the goalkeeper, keeping the tally unchanged at halftime.
The home team re-emerged with renewed vigor in the second half, keen to secure the first goal with several attacking plays. Allende delivered a ball over the Maniema defense to locate Arthur Sales, but Efonge’s quick reflexes wouldn’t allow him to score.
In the 62nd minute, the Brazilians missed a prime chance when Ribeiro set up Thapelo Morena inside the box, but his weak shot went straight into the arms of the goalkeeper.
Maniema built a moment of pressure with four consecutive corner kicks and nearly caught Sundowns off guard, rattling the crossbar with a shot from Moanda Exaucia after Sundowns’ defense failed to clear the threat.
As the tension escalated, Mngqithi made a double substitution in the 70th minute, introducing Peter Shalulile and Neo Maema for Erwin Saavreda and Kobamelo Kodisang. Costa unleashed another powerful strike from outside the area, but Efonge managed to tip it over the bar, aided by the post.
Despite relentless attempts, Sundowns could not find the back of the net and were left to ponder a disappointing onset to their Champions League journey. This marks the first occasion since the 2018/19 season, when they lost 2-1 to Nigerian side Lobu Stars under coach Pitso Mosimane, that Sundowns have failed to win their initial group stage match.
On that earlier occasion, Sundowns regrouped and secured a second-place finish behind Wydad Casablanca.
Coach Manqoba Mngqithi, whose side came into this match after suffering a defeat in the Carling Knockout Cup final against Magesi FC over the weekend, will look for a turnaround in their upcoming five matches.
