Mamelodi Sundowns took a massive step toward qualification for the next round of the Caf Champions League with a 1-0 win over Pitso Mosimane’s Al Ahly side on Saturday afternoon.

The Brazilians made three changes from the side which won in Cairo with Mothobi Mvala, Haashim Domingo and Thapelo Morena all coming in, while Percy Tau was handed a start for the visitors.

After a tight start, the home side had the first opening in the 22nd minute as Mvala’s looping strike from the edge of the box was headed on to the top of the crossbar by Yasser Ibrahim.

Sundowns, however, then managed to grab the lead from the resulting corner as Peter Shalulile snuck in to guide Lyle Lakay’s corner with his knee at the back post.

Mosimane’s side were trying to force their way into the game but Downs were doing well to restrict their opposition’s space and time as they went into the break level.

The Red Devils came out with positive intent in the second half but were met by a deep-lying Sundowns side, which were restricting Ahly to limited chances.

The Brazilians then had a chance to double their lead in the 73rd minute as Pavol Safranko was sent through by Themba Zwane, but his curling shot was saved by shotstopper Mohamed El Shenawy in a one-on-one.

Sundowns were inviting the guests on to them in the closing stages but managed to hold on for the victory to go six points clear at the top, with only two rounds of matches remaining.