Mamelodi Sundowns were held to a 0-0 draw by Maniema Union in the first match of the CAF Champions League stages on Tuesday night at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Masandawana enjoyed a significant advantage in terms of possession in the first half, but they were unable to translate this dominance into meaningful scoring opportunities.
Maniema, adopting a defensive approach, sought to capitalize on counter-attacks.
Allende had a golden chance to break the deadlock when he received the ball inside the box, but his shot sailed over the bar.
Shortly after, Maniema's goalkeeper, Brunel Efonge, produced a stunning save to deny Teboho Mokoena's powerful free-kick.
The match went into halftime with the score 0-0 on the board.
The second half saw a surge in pressure from Sundowns, who sought to break the deadlock. Arthur Sales missed a golden opportunity, denied by the goalkeeper from close range.
In response, Sundowns made substitutions, bringing on Peter Shalulile, Khuliso Mudau, and Neo Maema for Arthur Sales, Kobamelo Kodisang, and Erwin Saavedra.
However, the visitors maintained their defensive solidity, holding on for a hard-earned point away from home.
