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PRETORIA. – Mamelodi Sundowns were knocked out of the 2018 CAF Champions League following a goalless draw against Horoya at the Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville last night. Sundowns had to win to advance into the knockout stages alongside defending champions Wydad Casablanca in Group C, but failed to find the killer blow as Horoya duly booked their place in the quarterfinals.

The Brazilians have been notorious fast-starters on home soil – especially in the Champions League – and the same message was echoed by Pitso Mosimane in the build-up and by his players on the pitch in the early stages of the clash.

Horoya, though, held firm despite growing pressure from the hosts and when Jeremy Brockie finally unleashed a shot on target in the 18th minute, Khadim N’Diaye was well positioned to make a good save.

At the other end of the pitch, Horoya were always going to cause problems on the counter-attack, but the Guinea outfit also fancied their chances from distance and almost caught Denis Onyango unawares soon after.

The Uganda international with a great save after frantically back-pedaling to deny Amadou Wonkoye’s long-range effort from finding the back of the net. Gastón Sirino started to weave his wand as the half reached it’s climax and the Uruguayan had Sundowns’ best chance on the cusp of halftime.

Tebogo Langerman burst down the left flank before firing a low cross into a dangerous area, but Sirino failed to convert with the goal at his mercy.

The Horoya defence continued to prove difficult to break down following the interval as the Guinea club grew in confidence with every minute. – SuperSport.