South African Giants Sundowns Lift CAF Champions League Trophy For Second Time

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By Sedara Philip

Mamelodi Sundowns have once again etched their name into African football history after securing their second CAF Champions League title following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against AS FAR in Rabat.

The South African champions entered the decisive second leg holding a slim 1-0 advantage from the first encounter in Pretoria. Despite intense pressure from the Moroccan side at a packed Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Sundowns showed resilience, composure, and championship character to emerge victorious 2-1 on aggregate.

Determined to overturn the deficit, AS FAR started the match with aggression and energy, dominating possession and pushing Sundowns deep into their own half. Their persistence paid off in the 40th minute when Moroccan midfielder Mohamed Hrimat calmly converted from the penalty spot after a foul inside the area, sending the home supporters into wild celebrations as the tie was levelled on aggregate.

However, the joy inside the stadium was short-lived. Just moments before halftime, Sundowns responded in emphatic fashion through midfielder Teboho Mokoena. The South African international reacted quickest inside the penalty area to fire home a crucial equaliser, restoring Sundowns’ aggregate advantage and shifting the momentum back in favour of the visitors.

The second half delivered even more drama as AS FAR continued their relentless search for goals. The Moroccan giants were handed a golden opportunity in the 77th minute when they were awarded a second penalty after another challenge inside the box.

Once again, Hrimat stepped forward with the hopes of an entire stadium resting on his shoulders. But this time, Sundowns captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams produced a defining moment of brilliance. Diving low to his right, Williams pulled off a magnificent save to deny the Moroccan side and preserve Sundowns’ lead on aggregate.

That stunning save proved to be the turning point of the final. AS FAR threw everything forward in the closing stages, but Sundowns defended with discipline, experience, and tactical maturity to weather the storm and finally hear the final whistle.

The triumph marks a historic achievement for Mamelodi Sundowns, who lifted Africa’s most prestigious club trophy for the second time after first winning the competition in 2016. It also further cements the club’s reputation as one of the continent’s dominant football forces.

For Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso and his players, the victory represents the culmination of years of consistent investment, strong squad building, and continental ambition. For the supporters, it is another unforgettable chapter in the club’s growing legacy on the African stage.