Sundowns lay Egyptian bogey to rest

PRETORIA (AFP) — South African club Mamelodi Sundowns claimed a first victory over Egyptian opposition by edging Haras al-Hodoud 1-0 in an African Confederation Cup tie on Saturday.

Giant striker Lungisani Ndlela headed the winner 61 minutes into a lively fourth round, first leg match and the result leaves the outcome delicately balanced ahead of the second leg in two weeks.

Sundowns had drawn twice at home and lost twice away to Egyptian giants Al-Ahly during the past seven years in the Champions League and for a long time it seemed they might be thwarted again.

Haras from the Mediterranean city of Alexandria conceded eight corners within eight minutes of the kick-off at freezing Super Stadium, but were more threatening in attack during the opening half.

Veteran striker Abdelhamid Bassouni went close with ...