Mamelodi Sundowns moved closer to the final of the CAF Champions League with a 1–0 win over Espérance Sportive de Tunis in the first leg of their semi-final clash in Tunis on Sunday.
The decisive moment came early in the second half when Brayan León scored with a close-range header from a cross delivered by Thapelo Morena.
Espérance made a strong start and created the better chances in the first half. Mohamed Tougaï tested goalkeeper Ronwen Williams early on, while Florian Danho struck the post in the 32nd minute. However, the hosts were unable to find a breakthrough against a well-organised Sundowns defence.
After the break, Sundowns showed greater attacking intent and took the lead within five minutes. León’s header proved to be the difference in a closely contested encounter.
Espérance thought they had equalised in the 65th minute through substitute Aboubacar Diakité, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review for a foul.
The home side continued to press, with Onuche Ogbelu and Danho creating chances, but Williams remained solid in goal.
Sundowns were reduced to ten men in the 84th minute after Grant Kekana was sent off. Despite late pressure and extended stoppage time, they held on to secure an important away victory.
The result gives Sundowns a narrow advantage heading into the second leg in South Africa.