Themba Zwane urges Sundowns to seize chance for immortality in CAF Champions League final

Mamelodi Sundowns captain Themba Zwane believes the current generation of players has an opportunity to carve its name permanently into African football history as the club closes in on a second CAF Champions League crown.

Masandawana head into Sunday’s decisive second leg in Rabat holding a slender 1-0 advantage after last weekend’s victory in Tshwane. Victory in Morocco would make Sundowns the first South African club to win the continent’s premier club competition twice, adding to the title they secured in 2016.

Zwane, one of the few remaining figures from that triumphant campaign a decade ago, says the magnitude of the occasion has been central to his message inside the dressing room.

“I will try to remind them how big it is and the excitement we are going to get in the country. We have to push ourselves and try to make history,” Zwane said.

“I think this group will be remembered after 10 years. Overall, it’s to remind them of the importance of this game.”

Slim advantage leaves no room for complacency

Unlike the 2016 final against Zamalek SC, when Sundowns travelled for the return leg with a commanding three-goal cushion, this year’s final remains delicately balanced.

The narrow lead means another composed and disciplined performance will be required away from home, particularly against a Moroccan side expected to attack aggressively in front of its supporters.

Preparation for the trip was also disrupted after permit complications delayed the club’s scheduled charter flight, forcing the squad to depart later than planned.

Despite the setback, Zwane insisted the spirit within camp has remained upbeat.

“The travel was long, but I think the mood is super okay. Everyone is so excited,” he said.

“You can see the brotherhood. We push one another. We had some fun on the flight. We are trying to keep the mood to be positive as much as we can.”

Attack remains Sundowns’ biggest weapon

Sundowns arrive in North Africa fresh from yet another dominant domestic campaign after sealing the Betway Premiership title with 68 points, comfortably ahead of rivals Orlando Pirates.

Yet their closing league fixtures revealed slight cracks in an otherwise commanding season. A dramatic 7-4 victory over Siwelele FC showcased their relentless attacking strength, but it was followed by a 3-2 defeat to TS Galaxy in which defensive lapses proved costly.

Those matches highlighted vulnerabilities at the back, with moments of poor concentration threatening to undermine the free-flowing football that has made Sundowns one of the continent’s most feared attacking sides.

Still, experience, depth and composure under pressure continue to define this Sundowns team as they prepare for one of the biggest nights in the club’s history.

Now, with African glory within touching distance once again, Zwane and his teammates stand 90 minutes away from ensuring this generation is remembered alongside the greatest sides South African football has produced.