Mamelodi Sundowns earned their first victory in the group stages of the CAF Champions League this season with a narrow 1-0 win over Moroccan side AS FAR Rabat on Sunday.
The South African champions had drawn their opening two matches and were under pressure to secure a positive result in front of their home crowd.
Their persistence paid off when Iqraam Rayners netted the decisive goal in the 65th minute, sealing a much-needed win.
The encounter at Loftus Versfeld Stadium saw Sundowns dominate possession and create several chances, but AS FAR’s defense remained resolute for much of the game.
It was Rayners’ clinical finish midway through the second half that finally broke the deadlock, sending the home fans into celebration.
This victory pushes Mamelodi Sundowns to five points in Group B, keeping them in second place behind group leaders AS FAR Rabat, who also have five points but hold the top spot on goal difference.
Maniema Union of the Democratic Republic of Congo sits in third place with three points, while Moroccan giants Raja Casablanca occupy the bottom of the table with one point.
The win represents a significant boost for the Sundowns, who are aiming to assert their dominance in the competition and progress to the knockout stages.
Our final home game of the year ends with 3 huge points on the board! A massive thank you to the amazing support from our supporters! 🙌
Mamelodi Sundowns (65′ Rayners) 1⃣➖0⃣ Raja Casablanca#Sundowns #TotalEnergiesCAFCL #RabatsenaGape pic.twitter.com/ZdFWjQTk2m
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) December 15, 2024
Head coach Rulani Mokwena praised his team’s effort and discipline after the match.
It was important for us to get this win, especially against a strong opponent like AS FAR.
The players showed great character, and we will build on this momentum for the upcoming fixtures,” he said.
With three games remaining in the group stage, the Sundowns will need to maintain their form to secure qualification.
They are set to face Maniema Union next, a match that could prove pivotal in the race for the top two spots in the group.
For AS FAR Rabat, the loss marks their first setback of the campaign, though they remain well-positioned in the standings.
The Moroccan side will look to rebound in their next match as they aim to maintain their strong start to the tournament.
As the competition heats up, Group B continues to showcase tight contests, with all four teams still in contention for progression.
Sundowns’ long-awaited victory could mark the turning point in their pursuit of CAF Champions League glory.
