Themba Zwane needed just eight minutes to score what proved to be the winner for Sundowns, with Al-Hilal unable to stage a comeback.

Sundowns top Group A with three points, with the other group match between reigning champions Ahly of Egypt and Al-Hilal's Sudanese rivals Merreikh postponed due to the former's participation in the FIFA Club World Cup.

In Group C, Etoile settled for a goalless draw at home to CR Belouizdad and they were also lucky to escape a defeat.

CR Belouizdad's Kheireddine Merzougui wasted a penalty at the death, to the relief of Etoile.

Tunisian side Esperance meet Botswana's Galaxy in the other group match on Saturday.

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