CAFCL FINAL: AS FAR vs Mamelodi Sundowns

On Sunday, 25 May, Moroccan giants AS FAR welcome South African powerhouses Mamelodi Sundowns in Rabat.

After a tense first-leg encounter in Pretoria, Sundowns travel north holding a slender 1-0 aggregate advantage courtesy of Aubrey Modiba’s superb first-half free-kick.

Stade Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium is expected to be a hostile atmosphere for the Brazilians, as the home will be looking to overturn the deficit in front of their passionate supporters.

Advantage Sundowns, But Job Far from Done

Coach Miguel Cardoso’s troops showed a disciplined display in the first leg, limiting AS FAR’s attacking opportunities while creating enough chances to extend their lead.

Modiba’s stunning free kick was decisive and has put the Brazilians one foot in being crowned CAF champions league winner for the 2025/26 season. Sundowns could have arrived in this encounter leading at least by 2-0, as the Colombian striker Brayan León squandered several promising openings, while Teboho Mokoena struck the woodwork late in the contest.

A single AS FAR goal would level the aggregate score and completely change the complexion of the final. Cardoso and his side must be careful play as a team and be solid at the back.

Fortress Rabat Awaits

AS FAR walk out onto their home turf knowing they are very much alive. It has been 41 long years since the Moroccan military club last tasted CAF Champions League glory, and they will fully rely on a partisan home crowd to spark a legendary turnaround.

Coach Alexandre Santos will demand a more aggressive approach from his players after they struggled to impose themselves in Pretoria. Mohamed Hrimat and Youssef El Fahli will be crucial in dictating tempo, while the hosts must find a way to breach a Sundowns defence marshalled by captain Ronwen Williams.

Key Battle: Midfield Control

AS FAR’s biggest challenge is patience. If they commit too many bodies forward too early in search of an equalizsr, they risk getting cut to pieces by Sundowns’ lethal transition play and technical forwards like Leon.

Whoever dictates the engine room walks away with the crown. It’s a clash of two distinct philosophies.

Verdict

AS FAR’s home support and attacking urgency should make this a far more open contest than the first leg. However, Sundowns possess the experience, tactical discipline and defensive quality needed to navigate difficult away fixtures. This match is likely to end with a 1-1 draw.

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