Mamelodi Sundowns faced disappointment after a scoreless draw against AS Maniema Union from the Democratic Republic of the Congo in their CAF Champions League debut at Loftus Stadium on Tuesday.

The match kicked off with Sundowns controlling possession as anticipated, while Maniema opted for a compact formation, aiming to disrupt Sundowns’ central play and exploit counterattacking opportunities.

The visitors were compelled to make an early substitution in the eighth minute, replacing Mola Otinga with Kanu Jonathan due to a muscle injury.

Lucas Ribeiro Costa came close to scoring in the 15th minute with a long-range shot intended to catch Efonge Brudel off guard, but the goalkeeper made an important save, conceding only a corner.

Shortly thereafter, Teboho Mokoena executed an exquisite free-kick from the edge of the box, aiming for the top corner, but Efonge was there to thwart him.

Marcelo Allende attempted the last shot of the first half, but it was an easy save for the goalkeeper, leaving the score at a standstill as they headed into halftime.

The home team emerged in the second half with renewed vigor, eager for the first goal through a flurry of attacks. Allende delivered a clever pass over the Maniema defense to find Arthur Sales, but Efonge’s quick reflexes denied him a goal.

In the 62nd minute, Sundowns had a fantastic opportunity when Ribeiro assisted Thapelo Morena in the box, but his weak shot went straight into the goalkeeper’s arms.

Maniema seized a moment of pressure with four consecutive corner kicks and nearly caught Sundowns off guard, hitting the crossbar with a shot from Moanda Exaucia after the Sundowns defense failed to clear the ball.

With frustration mounting, Mngqithi made a double substitution in the 70th minute, introducing Peter Shalulile and Neo Maema for Erwin Saavreda and Kobamelo Kodisang. Costa unleashed another powerful shot from outside the box, but Efonge managed to tip it over the bar, aided by the post.

Despite their relentless attempts, Sundowns were unable to score and were left to contemplate a disappointing start to their Champions League campaign. This marks the first time since the 2018/19 season, when they lost 2-1 to Nigerian team Lobu Stars under coach Pitso Mosimane, that Sundowns have failed to win their opening group stage match.

On that occasion, Sundowns were able to bounce back and secured a second-place finish behind Wydad Casablanca.

Coach Manqoba Mngqithi, whose team came into this match after suffering a defeat in the Carling Knockout Cup final against Magesi FC over the weekend, will be seeking rejuvenation in their upcoming five matches.