Mamelodi Sundowns faced disappointment as they drew 0-0 with AS Maniema Union from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in their CAF Champions League debut at Loftus Stadium on Tuesday.
The match commenced with Sundowns controlling possession as anticipated, while Maniema adopted a tight formation, aiming to disrupt Sundowns’ central play and exploit counterattacks.
The visitors were obliged to make an early substitution in the eighth minute, replacing Mola Otinga with Kanu Jonathan due to a muscle injury.
Lucas Ribeiro Costa nearly broke the stalemate in the 15th minute with a long-distance effort that sought to catch Efonge Brudel off guard, but the goalkeeper made a pivotal save, conceding only a corner.
Following that, Teboho Mokoena delivered an excellent free-kick from the edge of the area aimed for the top corner, but Efonge was there to thwart him.
Marcelo Allende took the final shot of the first half, but it was an easy save for the goalkeeper, keeping the scoreline unchanged at halftime.
The home team emerged with renewed vigor in the second half, eager for the first goal through a series of offensive plays. Allende delivered a ball over the Maniema defense to locate Arthur Sales, but Efonge’s quick reflexes prevented him from scoring.
In the 62nd minute, the Brazilians had a prime opportunity when Ribeiro set up Thapelo Morena in the box, but his weak shot went directly into the goalkeeper’s hands.
Maniema mounted a moment of pressure with four consecutive corner kicks and nearly surprised Sundowns, hitting the crossbar with a shot from Moanda Exaucia after the Sundowns defense failed to clear the ball.
With frustration mounting, 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 crossbar with assistance from the post.
Despite their relentless attempts, Sundowns could not find the net and were left to ponder a disappointing start to their Champions League campaign. This is the first time since the 2018/19 season, when they lost 2-1 to Nigerian team Lobu Stars under coach Pitso Mosimane, that Sundowns have been unable to secure victory in their opening group stage match.
On that occasion, Sundowns recovered and finished second behind Wydad Casablanca.
Coach Manqoba Mngqithi, whose team came into this game after their defeat in the Carling Knockout Cup final to Magesi FC over the weekend, will be seeking a turnaround in their next five matches.
