TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Final: Sundowns’ historic 2016 triumph inspires ongoing continental dream

Mamelodi Sundowns and AS FAR stand on the brink of history as they prepare to contest the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League final, with both clubs drawing inspiration from landmark triumphs that shaped their continental identity.

Sundowns, who fell short last season, losing to current champions Pyramids FC, look to add a second African crown to their memorable 2016 triumph, while Morocco’s AS FAR are hoping to relive the glory of 1985 when they became the first Moroccan side to conquer the continent. 

CAFOnline takes a look at the two sides’ respective continental success ahead of their two-legged final on 17 May (Pretoria, South Africa) and 24 May (Rabat, Morocco).

Guided by charismatic coach Pitso Mosimane, the Sundowns’ 2016 success was not smooth.

Their campaign took an unexpected turn before the group stages. Sundowns were initially eliminated by AS Vita Club in the qualifying rounds but later reinstated after the Congolese side was found guilty of fielding an ineligible player.

In the group stages, they battled African heavyweights ES Sétif, Enyimba and ZESCO United - finishing top of their group and announcing themselves as genuine contenders.

Mosimane’s side then produced one of the great tactical displays of the tournament in the semi-finals against ZESCO United of Zambia. After a hard-fought first leg away from home, Sundowns secured qualification with a composed 2-0 victory in Pretoria.

The final against Egyptian giants Zamalek was the ultimate test.

A packed Lucas Moripe Stadium witnessed Sundowns overwhelm the five-time champions in the first leg, with goals from Anthony Laffor, Tebogo Langerman and an own goal sealing a commanding 3-0 victory. 

Despite a tense return leg in Alexandria, where Zamalek won 1-0, Sundowns held firm to claim a historic 3-1 aggregate triumph and lift their maiden continental title – becoming only the second South African club after Orlando Pirates’ 1995 success.

The squad was filled with influential figures who became club legends. Goalkeeper Denis Onyango delivered commanding performances throughout the campaign, while Hlompho Kekana was an anchor in the midfield. Up front, the attacking trio of Khama Billiat, Gaston Sirino and Keagan Dolly were relentless in attack

Mosimane’s leadership was equally crucial. His tactical flexibility and unwavering belief transformed Sundowns into one of Africa’s most feared sides and established the club as a continental powerhouse to date.