Santos urges calm confidence as AS FAR eye positive result in CAF Champions League final first leg

AS FAR head coach AS FAR Alexandre Santos has stressed calmness, confidence and respect for the opposition as the Moroccan side gear up for a high-stakes CAF Champions League final first leg away to Mamelodi Sundowns on Sunday in Pretoria.

Speaking ahead of the game at Tshwane, Santos highlighted the mental demands of continental finals but insisted his players are ready to handle the occasion without being overwhelmed by pressure.

“Pressure exists in every final, but it can become a positive motivation. We are working on keeping the players calm and focused, while approaching the match with great confidence and respect for the opponent, without fear,” Santos said.

The AS FAR coach emphasised that reaching the final is a reward for consistency throughout the campaign, while underlining the importance of chasing a strong result in the first leg.

“When you reach the final, it means you deserve to be there… and we will enter the match looking for a positive result,” he added.

The first leg is scheduled for Sunday, 17 May 2026, in Tshwane, South Africa, with kick-off set for 16:00 local time (14:00 GMT).

Both sides will be aiming to take control of the tie before the return leg, in what promises to be a tightly contested conclusion to Africa’s premier club competition.