It was exactly ten years ago that Mamelodi Sundowns broke the mould and entrenched themselves as a continental powerhouse when, under then coach Pitso Mosimane, they equaled Orlando Pirates’ record when they won the 2016 CAF Champions League star.
Tonight, a decade after numerous attempts, where they were crashing and burning, they get another shot to become the first South African club to win the Champions League for the second time when they come up against Morocco’s AS FAR in front of more than 65 000 fans.
The second leg, in which Sundowns take a slender 1-0 from the first round at Loftus Versfeld last week, will be played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium. The 15-time PSL champions will also be up against dirty tricks, unsporting behaviour, and those green lasers that are flashed in the faces of visiting teams – something that is characteristic when they play in CAF competitions.
Sundowns also experienced mind games midweek as they could not depart to Rabat after Moroccan authorities refused to issue a landing permit.
Sundowns will be playing their second Champions League in as many years and they will draw from the experience of last season where they fell to Egypt’s newcomers Pyramids FC. It will also be coach Miguel Cardoso’s third final in a row, having led Tunisia’s Esperance to the final in 2024, without any success.
For the first time in CAF history, the final will be broadcast live over 100 territories. It will be shown live in Japan, South Korea, China, Europe, Mexico, Brazil, the UK, among others.
Gauteng MEC of Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation Lebogang Maile and the SA Masters and Legends Football Association have sent well wishes to Sundowns.
- Mamelodi Sundowns cemented their status as a continental powerhouse 10 years ago.
- They won the 2016 CAF Champions League title under coach Pitso Mosimane.
- This victory equaled the record previously held by Orlando Pirates.
- The achievement marked a significant milestone in Sundowns' history.
- Full details are available by purchasing the e-edition of Sunday World.
It was exactly ten years ago that Mamelodi
Tonight, a decade after numerous attempts, where they were crashing and burning, they get another shot to become the first
For the first time in CAF history, the final will be broadcast live over 100 territories. It will be shown live in Japan,
