“We know very well the strength of our opponents” — AS FAR’s Alexandre Santos warns of tough Sundowns test ahead of CAF Champions League final first leg

AS FAR head coach Alexandre Santos has underlined the magnitude of the challenge awaiting his side as they prepare to face Mamelodi Sundowns in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final, stressing that discipline, efficiency and mental resilience will be decisive in Tshwane.

Speaking to CAFOnline ahead of Sunday’s showdown, Santos offered a frank assessment of the South African champions, praising their structure and continental pedigree while outlining the demands placed on his own players.

“We know very well the strength of our opponents, Mamelodi Sundowns. They are a well-organised team with great continental experience,” Santos said.

“We are focusing on tactical discipline, reducing mistakes and making the most of the opportunities that come our way.

“We are also working a lot on the mental side so that the players enter the match with confidence and strong character,” he added.

The Moroccan side, AS FAR, head into the final with ambitions of securing a strong result away from home before the return leg, where the continental title will be decided.

The first leg will be played on Sunday, 17 May 2026, in Tshwane, South Africa, with kick-off scheduled for 16h00 local time (14h00 GMT).

The encounter pits two of Africa’s most tactically disciplined and historically competitive clubs against each other in what is expected to be a tightly contested final.

Santos’ message reflects both caution and intent — respect for Sundowns’ pedigree, but also a clear belief that his side can compete if they execute their game plan with precision on the continent’s biggest stage.