AS FAR overcome Sundowns to win third CAF Women’s Champions League title

Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies missed the chance to claim a third CAF Women’s Champions League title after AS FAR secured a 3-1 victory in Sunday evening’s final.

The result gave the Moroccan side their third title, taking them past Sundowns’ total of two. AS FAR also collected $600 000 (R10.1million) in prize money.

The final was a repeat of the 2022 showpiece, when AS FAR defeated Sundowns 4-0. The Brazilians had gained revenge the following year by beating the Moroccan club 1-0 in the semi-finals.

Both teams had earned their places in the final with convincing semi-final performances. Sundowns stormed past Kawempe Muslim on Wednesday night, while AS FAR progressed after overcoming Cameroonian side Lekie Football Filles.

AS FAR made the stronger start in the final and took the lead in the 23rd minute. Imane Touriss worked her way beyond a challenge before sending a long-range effort into the far corner.

Sundowns responded almost immediately. Two minutes later, Refilwe Tholakele received a pass from Nonhlanhla Mthandi and produced an excellent finish from a tight angle, placing her shot into the top corner to restore parity.

The Moroccan side regained their advantage eight minutes before half-time. After a well-worked passing move, 17-year-old Hiba Youssoufi saw her effort take a deflection before finding the net.

Sundowns were forced to make changes at the beginning of the second half. Goalkeeper Andile Dlamini went off injured and was replaced by Kebotseng Moletsane, while Nthabiseng Majiya came on for Lelona Daweti.

AS FAR continued to threaten and extended their lead in the 77th minute. Touriss completed her brace to take her tally to four goals in the competition.

The third goal reduced Sundowns’ influence during the closing stages, allowing AS FAR to protect their advantage and see out the victory.

The Moroccan club’s success means they have now won the CAF Women’s Champions League three times, while Sundowns were denied the opportunity to add another title to their previous two triumphs.