TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Final; Sundowns on brink of securing elusive second title
After years of building, recalibrating, and coming agonizingly close, Mamelodi Sundowns may finally be on the cusp of reclaiming their place at the summit of African football. The Brazilians are on the verge of lifting their first TotalEnergies CAF Champions League title since 2016, and the evidence supporting their claim is more compelling than ever.
The final is a two-legged affair, with the first leg set for May 24 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Tshwane, and the decisive return leg taking place on June 1 in Cairo against Egyptian giants Pyramids FC. Having already conquered the South African domestic scene with an unprecedented eighth consecutive league title, Sundowns have shifted all focus to bringing home the biggest prize in African club football.
A Group Stage Built on Grit
Sundowns showcased resilience and depth during their TotalEneriges CAF Champions League group campaign, finishing strongly in Group B. Under Manqoba Mngqithi, they collected crucial wins against Raja Casablanca, Maniema, and AS FAR Rabat, proving their consistency and ability to manage high-stakes games across the continent.
Although they suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Raja, Sundowns remained competitive throughout the group phase and showed they can adapt tactically and grind out results—a crucial trait for any title contender.
Cardoso's Steady Hand in Knockouts
The baton was handed to Miguel Cardoso in the knockout stages, and the Portuguese tactician has brought structure, stability, and a continental edge to Sundowns. His calm, calculated approach saw Sundowns edge Esperance 1-0 over two legs in the quarter-finals and frustrate Al Ahly SC—the tournament’s most decorated side—over two legs in a goalless semi-final that Sundowns edged on away goals.
Cardoso’s decision to reinforce the midfield and vary formations between 4-3-3 and 4-3-2-1 has made Sundowns unpredictable and harder to break down. His tactics have laid the platform for individuals to shine while maintaining a disciplined team structure.
Ronwen Williams, the Wall
At the back, Ronwen Williams has emerged as one of the tournament’s standout goalkeepers. The Bafana Bafana skipper has kept the third-highest number of clean sheets in the competition, playing a crucial role in Sundowns’ deep run.
His shot-stopping heroics and vocal leadership were particularly vital in hostile environments like Tunis and Cairo, and he remains the last line of defence that Cardoso trusts implicitly heading into the two-legged final.
Local Dominance Breeds Belief
Sundowns are not just surviving on the continent—they are dominating at home. Their recent eighth league title in a row is a symbol of sustained excellence. This domestic superiority has created a confident, battle-hardened squad that knows how to win.
From Teboho Mokoena’s control in midfield to Lucas Ribeiro’s attacking spark, Sundowns have the depth and quality to compete with any team in Africa. Even when rotating players due to injuries or fixture congestion, the system remains fluid and competitive.
What Makes This Year Different?
In previous campaigns, Sundowns have stumbled late—often out-thought by more experienced sides or undone by narrow margins. This season, they look mentally tougher, tactically smarter, and emotionally driven to break the cycle.
They have already eliminated Esperance and Al Ahly, two of North Africa’s toughest clubs, en route to the final. And now, they face Pyramids FC, with the chance to close the chapter on their continental drought.
Should they overcome the final hurdle in Cairo on June 1, Mamelodi Sundowns will not only be crowned kings of Africa again but will also reaffirm their status as the continent’s gold standard for modern football development and consistency.