Masar seek repeat upset against Mamelodi Sundowns in CAF Women's Champions League opener

Egyptian champions FC Masar will attempt to repeat their famous victory over two-time African champions Mamelodi Sundowns when the sides meet in their opening Group A match of the CAF Women's Champions League Egypt 2026 on Sunday.

The encounter at the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia kicks off at 17h00 local time (15h00 GMT), with Sundowns seeking revenge for their shock 1-0 defeat by Masar in the 2024 competition.

Both sides have reached the semi-finals in previous editions, making their reunion one of the standout fixtures of the opening round.

Masar bank on home advantage and Shikangwa

Masar coach Abdelrahman Ayed, 29, will be hoping to extend the Egyptian club's impressive continental record after consecutive semi-final appearances.

Kenyan international striker Jentrix Shikangwa is expected to provide a major attacking threat following her arrival from Tanzania's Simba Queens, where she scored 69 league goals over four seasons.

Masar also have fond memories of their previous meeting with Sundowns, when Sandrine Niyonkuru's penalty secured a historic victory in Morocco.

Sundowns target revenge and third title

Sundowns return to the competition after missing the 2025 edition, with coach Godfrey Sapula seeking to restore the South Africans to the summit of African club football.

Forward Refilwe Tholakele will be central to their ambitions after scoring twice in the 2-1 COSAFA qualifying final victory over ZESCO Ndola Girls.

Karabo Dhlamini, named best player of the regional qualifiers, and experienced goalkeeper Andile Dlamini are also important figures.

"It is not an easy draw," Sapula said.

"To win the best trophies, you have to play against the best."

Close encounter

Sundowns enter with greater continental pedigree, but Masar's previous victory and home advantage make this a difficult assignment.

A closely contested draw appears possible, with both sides possessing enough attacking quality to score.