Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rhulani Mokwena believes his players prevailed against Al Ahly to reach the final of the African Football League because they were “brave and united.”

Sundowns secured their spot in the first-ever AFL final after defeating the Egyptian giants with a 1-0 aggregate scoreline over two legs. Masandawana were pushed all the way by a resilient Red Devils outfit, however, the team from Mamelodi remained resolute and got the job done having won the first leg meeting 1-0 in South Africa.

Speaking after the game, Mokwena said: “We are friends, and football unites nations, we will always have respect for Al Ahly and Egypt,” adding: “I am very, very proud of the performance of my Sundowns players, I told them (players) that they should be brave and united, and they fought during the match.”

Mokwena further reserved praise for Sundowns fans insisting they had played a huge part in the team reaching the final by saying: “The fans have a significant role in us reaching the final.”

Sundowns will now face Moroccan foes Wydad Casablanca in the final that will take place over two legs, with the first leg set for November 5 and the second leg culminating on November 11.