Through the eye of the media…

I’d put my money on Sundowns Desmond Katongo – Zambian journalist & a CAF Media Officer

“I think Sundowns have a slight edge over Ahly based on the results of the last five meetings between the two teams. Sundowns have scored two victories and a draw in their last three meetings, which should give them confidence going into this weekend’s clash. They are equally in fine form, which can be seen from their 15 consecutive victories in their domestic championship. I’m not a betting man, but I would put my money on Sundowns. They play without fear and a certain bravado. That, as far as I’m concerned, gives them an edge. I think Themba Zwane, Teboho Mokoena, Peter Shalulile and Neo Maema are some of the biggest names on the continent and will certainly make the difference for Sundowns.”

Defensive discipline will be key Osasu Obayuiwana – Nigerian/ British writer

“The game is difficult to call. I feel the game will be difficult for both teams and it will be ex tremely hard to call. But defensive discipline is what will be key – even when surging forward to attack. That will also play a key role in who wins and who loses. Rhulani Mokwena is a coach that is hungry to make his mark and he will be deploying his tactical nous to outwit the most accomplished team in African club football history. Marcel Koller placed fourth at the just-ended FIFA Club World Cup, where poor discipline in the latter stages of the tie against Real Madrid was their undoing. I am sure he will be ex pecting a tremendous improvement from his players. As far as the possible results of this game? It is much too close to call!”

I think they will prevail Dr Hosam Hasan – Egyptian medico & sport writer

“There have been a lot of changes at Sundowns, notably goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, midfielder Marcelo Allende and that ferocious attacking kid, Cassius Mailula, who is a very promising talent. On the other hand, there has been very little change at Ahly. The reason why Sundowns have dominated Ahly in the past has been the fact that Rhulani (Mokwena) and Manqoba (Mngqithi) could easily read former coach Pitso Mosimane like an open book and could anticipate his every move. In my view, Ahly are in a better condition compared to last year’s double clash with Sundowns, both of which they lost, but the FIFA Club World Cup competition has sharpened up their approach and I have no doubt that they will be in a better condition this time. The entire group is tough, make no mistakes, with both Coton Sport and Al Hilal not to be underestimated. However, because the Champions League is Ahly’s number one priority, I think they will prevail.”