Live: Esperance vs Mamelodi Sundowns – score, goals & CAF Champions League updates

Esperance de Tunis host Mamelodi Sundowns at the Stade Olympique de Rades on Sunday, April 12, 2026, in a first-leg clash of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League semi-finals, a fixture layered with history, tension, and a compelling personal subplot.

Follow Esperance vs Mamelodi Sundowns live here:

All eyes will be on Miguel Cardoso, who returns to Tunis for the first time as an opposition coach after leading Esperance to the 2024 final before taking charge of Sundowns.

Now at the helm of the South African champions, the Portuguese tactician faces the very side he once guided, adding a rare emotional edge to an already finely balanced continental rivalry.

This marks the third consecutive season these two sides meet in the knockout stages, with previous encounters defined by tight margins, tactical discipline, and remarkably low-scoring outcomes.

With the away goals rule still in effect, every moment in this first leg carries significant weight ahead of the decisive return fixture in Pretoria.

Esperance arrive in strong form, fresh from eliminating holders Al Ahly with an authoritative display and unbeaten in their last 10 matches across all competitions. Backed by the intimidating atmosphere in Rades, the Tunisian giants will look to establish a crucial first-leg advantage despite several attacking absences.

Mamelodi Sundowns, meanwhile, continue to combine domestic dominance with continental consistency. This is their fourth successive semi-final appearance, and with momentum in the Betway Premiership, Cardoso’s side will aim to secure a valuable away result to tilt the tie in their favour.

With a place in the final against either AS FAR Rabat or RS Berkane at stake, expect a tense, tactical contest where fine margins could define the outcome.

Stay with us for live score updates, key moments, and full match commentary.