Mamelodi Sundowns and AS FAR set for explosive CAF Champions League final clash in Pretoria

Mamelodi Sundowns FC and AS FAR are set to reignite their growing continental rivalry on Sunday when they face off in the first leg of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League final at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

The highly anticipated clash in Pretoria brings together two clubs with rich histories, ambitious squads and nations eagerly hoping for continental success.

Both teams are chasing a second African title, with Sundowns aiming to reclaim the CAF Champions League crown for the first time since their memorable triumph in 2016, while AS FAR are seeking to end a 41-year wait for continental glory after becoming the first Moroccan club to win the tournament back in 1985.

Record prize money raises stakes of the final

Adding further importance to the occasion is the record-breaking financial reward on offer, with the winners set to receive a massive USD 6 million prize from Confederation of African Football.

The increased prize money highlights CAF’s growing investment in club football as the organisation continues efforts to strengthen the profile and competitiveness of African competitions.

The two sides are already familiar opponents after meeting during last season’s group stage campaign, where both encounters ended in 1-1 draws, proving just how closely matched they are ahead of Sunday’s encounter.

Sundowns banking on home dominance

Mamelodi Sundowns FC head into the final carrying the expectations of their supporters after another strong domestic season.

Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso was appointed with the goal of restoring continental dominance, and guiding the club to the final has increased belief that he could deliver the trophy Sundowns crave most.

The South African champions have built a formidable reputation at home in African competition. Sundowns are unbeaten in their last eight home CAF Champions League matches against Moroccan opponents and have lost only once at home in the competition over the last five seasons.

Much of their attacking threat has come through Brayan León, whose goals against Espérance Sportive de Tunis in the semi-finals helped secure a second straight final appearance.

However, defensive concerns remain for the Pretoria side after injuries disrupted preparations. Keanu Cupido is doubtful for the match, while Grant Kekana will miss the encounter through suspension.

AS FAR relying on defensive discipline

AS FAR travel to South Africa with confidence after building one of the strongest defensive records in this season’s competition.

The Moroccan giants have conceded just five goals in 10 Champions League matches and displayed impressive resilience during their semi-final victory over RS Berkane.

Portuguese tactician Alexandre Santos has transformed AS FAR into one of Africa’s most tactically disciplined sides since taking charge earlier this year.

His team is comfortable defending deep, remaining compact without possession and launching dangerous counter-attacks, qualities that could frustrate Sundowns in front of their home crowd.

Tactical battle expected in first leg

Sunday’s final is expected to showcase two contrasting football philosophies.

Sundowns are likely to dominate possession with their quick passing combinations and attacking width, while AS FAR may focus on maintaining defensive organisation and exploiting spaces on the counter-attack before returning home for the decisive second leg in Rabat.

With both clubs evenly matched and carrying genuine ambitions of continental glory, the opening leg in Pretoria promises to deliver another memorable chapter in African club football history.