Mamelodi Sundowns approach the CAF Champions League semi-final first leg against Tunisian opponents Esperance this Sunday as the perceived favourites. However, they have historically struggled to overcome this particular rival.
The Sundowns are well-acquainted with Esperance, as this marks their third consecutive season facing off in the Champions League. Notably, Brazilians coach Miguel Cardoso was at the helm of Esperance when they eliminated Sundowns in the semi-finals of the 2023/24 campaign.
Last season, Sundowns secured revenge by knocking the Tunisians out in the quarter-finals, after Cardoso had moved to their side, but victories have been few and far between over the years.
In addition to these recent knockout encounters, the teams have clashed in the group stages three times since their inaugural meeting in 2000.
All in all, they have faced each other 10 times, with Sundowns managing to secure just two wins. Esperance have claimed four victories, and there have been four draws, all resulting in 0-0 scorelines.
Across these 10 encounters, Sundowns have scored six goals, while Esperance have netted seven. However, aside from the first two games that produced seven goals combined, scoring has proven challenging for both sides.
In the subsequent eight matches, only six goals have been registered.
Notably, Sundowns have yet to secure a victory away at Esperance, recording three draws and two losses, while at home they have notched two wins, two losses, and one draw.
Match History between Sundowns and Esperance
2000 Champions League Group Stage
Esperance 3-2 Sundowns
Sundowns 2-0 Esperance
2001 Champions League Group Stage
Sundowns 0-0 Esperance
Esperance 0-0 Sundowns
2017 Champions League Group Stage
Sundowns 1-2 Esperance
Esperance 0-0 Sundowns
2023/24 Champions League Semi-finals
Esperance 1-0 Sundowns
Sundowns 0-1 Esperance
2024/25 Champions League Quarter-finals
Sundowns 1-0 Esperance
Esperance 0-0 Sundowns
Compiled by SportArena.au
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