Mamelodi Sundowns hopes of continental glory came crashing to an end at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday afternoon after a 2-2 draw with Wydad Casablanca saw them exit the African Champions League at the semi-final stage via the away-goals rule.

Wydad will now face north African rivals Al Ahly in a repeat of last year’s final after they twice came from behind to draw level against the PSL champions.

Speaking after the game Sundowns manager Rulani Mokwena said: “It’s a typical Champions League game with two very good sides. Maybe words fail me at the moment but I have to congratulate the club for a good run in the tournament.

“This is a difficult competition and congratulations to Wydad for progressing – I wish them all the best for the final.

“We end having won a lot of hearts but of course it is not good enough. But we will have to galvanise strength, pick ourselves up and go again next year,” he said.

Sundowns opened the scoring in the 50th minute when Themba Zwane struck home powerfully from close range.

Wydad equalised after 72 minutes before Peter Shalulile restored the Brazilians lead a few minutes later. It was an 83 minute own goal that eventually sunk Sundowns as Mothobi Mvala turned the ball into his own net to end the South Arican side’s interest in the competition.