The CAF Champions League quarter-final first legs saw both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns pick up crucial victories.
Pirates battled their way to a gritty 1-0 away win over MC Alger, while Sundowns secured a narrow 1-0 home victory against Esperance de Tunis.
Here are the top five performers from these two South African giants in their respective clashes.
1. Sipho Chaine (Orlando Pirates)
In a game where Pirates had to endure relentless pressure, goalkeeper Sipho Chaine stood tall. His crucial 24th-minute save denied MC Alger an early lead, and his command of the box frustrated the hosts throughout.
The Bafana Bafana shot-stopper made five saves from inside the box on the night and was subsequently named Player of the match.
Even when Alger had the ball in the net, a foul on Chaine nullified the goal. His composure ensured Pirates walked away with a clean sheet and a priceless away win under the most difficult conditions.
2. Peter Shalulile (Mamelodi Sundowns)
He who scores in the big moments, Peter Shalulile does it again 🤌
— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) April 1, 2025
That ball from Jayden Adams though 👀🔥
📺 Stream #TotalEnergiesCAFCL on DStv: https://t.co/B0jLrQW5cc pic.twitter.com/HfmUE3J4Np
Cometh the hour, cometh the man. Peter Shalulile once again proved why he is Sundowns’ talisman, scoring the match-winner against Esperance late in the second half.
In a tight and tactical affair, his predatory instincts made the difference, ensuring the Brazilians head to Tunisia with a vital advantage.
The Namibian-born striker stretched his record as the highest scoring Premier Soccer League-based player to 19 goals.
3. Mohau Nkota (Orlando Pirates)
The youngster delivered a moment of brilliance when it mattered most, finishing calmly in the 66th minute after being played through.
The 19-year-old turned out to be a super-sub for Jose Riveiro as his goal against the run of play stunned MC Alger and proved to be the match-winner.
Given the pressure Pirates faced, Nkota’s pace in and out of possession proved vital and his composure in front of goal was commendable.
4. Jayden Adams (Mamelodi Sundowns)
Adams was a midfield engine for Sundowns, covering ground and keeping the team ticking against Esperance.
His ability to dictate play, win key duels, and maintain composure in possession helped Sundowns control the tempo in a cagey match.
While Shalulile took the headlines, Adams’ work in midfield as well as his assist for the goal was vital in securing the win on the day.
5. Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Orlando Pirates)
Mbekezeli Mbokazi 🔥#CAFCL #PSsport pic.twitter.com/SrDaIqSOHD
Once again, Mbokazi played a starring role in Pirates’ plan to restrict opposition to a few chances in Algeria.
The 19-year-old has established himself as a regular for the Soweto giants in recent weeks and his defensive work rate and ability to break up play in defence, allowed Pirates to maintain their structure despite being under siege for most of the match.
Both Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns now have the upper hand in their respective ties, but the job is far from done. With the return legs looming, these standout performers will need to step up again to ensure South Africa remains well represented in the CAF Champions League semi-finals.