FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo suffered a 3–1 defeat against Mamelodi Sundowns in their opening CAF Champions League group match in Pretoria, despite a spirited first-half display.
Santos struck in the fourth minute and gave Sundowns an immediate advantage.
Lupopo reacted with determination and grew into the match.
Twite threatened with a header in the 13th minute, while Enoch Molia tested the keeper shortly before the break.
Wanet rewarded Lupopo’s efforts in the 43rd minute and levelled the score.
The Congolese side walked into halftime with belief and discipline, even after Dramane Kambou collected a yellow card in the 32nd minute.
Sundowns regained control once the teams returned for the second half. Allende restored the lead in the 60th minute with a composed finish.
Lupopo searched for a response but failed to convert their chances. Sundowns then tightened their grip on the match.
Santos completed his brace in the 76th minute and secured all three points for the South African champions.
Lupopo pushed forward in the closing stages yet struggled to break down a well-organised defence.
The match ended 3–1 in favour of Mamelodi Sundowns. Lupopo left Pretoria with frustration but also with encouragement from a competitive first half.
Sundowns left with confidence and an early advantage in their group campaign.
Masandawana kick off the group stages with a victory at home! 🙌
Mamelodi Sundowns (4’, 76’ Santos, 60’ Allende) 3️⃣➖1️⃣ FC Saint-Eloi Lupopo (43’ Wanet)#Sundowns #TotalEnergiesCAFCL #AreyengMasandawana pic.twitter.com/rP7iYyGt6n
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) November 22, 2025
