CAF Champions League: MC Alger coach Rulani Mokwena rates Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Hilal high

Head coach of MC Alger, Rulani Mokwena, has rated Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Hilal high as they gear up for the CAF Champions League group stage.

Mokwena is set to face his former club, Sundowns and the Sudanese giants in the CAF elite club competition following the draw on Monday.

The draw, held in Johannesburg, produced several heavyweight pairings, with Mokwena’s MC Alger being paired against Sundowns, Al Hilal and DR Congo outfit St Eloi Lupopo in Group C.

Mokwena joined the Algeria champions at the beginning of the 2025/26 football campaign after exiting Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca early this year.

“That Al-Hilal have more heritage in the Champions League than us. That Mamelodi Sundowns have more heritage than us in group,” Mokwena said.

The draw has caught the attention of a chunk of football fanatics, with Mokwena set for a blockbuster reunion with Sundowns. The South African tactician returns to face the Brazilians, a club he achieved remarkable domestic and continental success before departing for Morocco.

Both teams are known for their tactical discipline, fluid attacking play, and high-tempo pressing — ingredients that promise a tactical chess match when they meet. Sundowns, who have consistently been among the favourites for the Champions League title in recent seasons, will be aiming to reassert their dominance on the continent.

With a strong squad built on experience and depth, the Brazilians will look to advance comfortably to the knockout stages while managing the emotional backdrop of facing their former coach.

Meanwhile, Mokwena and his charges will be aiming to upset Sundowns, who missed out on the ultimate title last season after falling short to Pyramids FC.

The 2025–26 CAF Champions League group phase is set to kick off on the weekend of November 21–23, with teams vying for spots in the knockout rounds.