Santos sets tone of pride and responsibility ahead of CAF Champions League final

AS FAR head coach Alexandre Santos has framed his side’s CAF Champions League final against Mamelodi Sundowns as a moment of both honour and obligation, stressing the weight of expectation on the Moroccan club as they prepare for the first leg in South Africa.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s opener, Santos highlighted the club’s history and the significance of competing for continental glory at the highest level.

“This carries great responsibility and pride at the same time. AS FAR is a club with a rich history and its fans deserve to celebrate another continental title. We respect the club’s history and understand the value of this challenge, and we will fight to bring the trophy back to its natural place.”

The message underlines the ambition within the AS FAR camp as they prepare to face a formidable opponent in a high-stakes first leg away from home.

The final pits AS FAR against South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns in the opening leg of the CAF Champions League showpiece, with both sides seeking an early advantage in the two-legged contest.

First leg details

The match will be played at the home of Mamelodi Sundowns in Tshwane, South Africa, on Sunday, 17 May 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 16h00 local time (14h00 GMT).

With continental silverware on the line, both teams head into the fixture aware that fine margins could shape the outcome of Africa’s most prestigious club competition.