Sundowns set for CAF Champions League Final

For Sundowns, it is a return to familiar territory in their pursuit of continental glory having last participated in the final in 2016 (and winning) also against an Egyptian opponent on the day – Zamalek SC. Their opponents on Saturday arrive with the hunger of a team looking to make history having already knocked out some big names in their path to the final. With so much at stake, this clash marks the beginning of a two-legged battle that will define African club supremacy.

Sundowns – Players to watch

Teboho Mokoena

Mokoena is the engine room in the heart of the Sundowns’ midfield and will be a key player as they look to control the game. The complete central midfielder; can control the pace, distribute passes, create chances, and pose a goal threat. His passing range and positional awareness can break defensive lines and unlock compact setups like those Pyramids may employ.

Creative Engine: Mokoena stands out with high values in passes attempted, accurate passes, and final third entries, highlighting his role as a midfield metronome. His ability to dictate play and progress the ball makes him central to Sundowns’ attacking transitions.

Progressive Passing Threat: He excels at long passes and has contributed significantly with accurate passes over 32m and through balls, showing he’s capable of splitting defenses from deep.

Shooting Range: His shots taken and shots outside the box metrics suggest he’s not shy to shoot from distance, a potential threat especially against teams sitting deep.

Influence: He is always heavily involved throughout the pitch, and the one to set the tempo and a key player Sundowns need to use to the best of their advantage.

Iqraam Rayners

Rayners has had an incredible season with Masandawana and should he get the nod to start will be another key figure in Sundowns’ attack going forward. He is a clinical, dynamic forward with smart movement and a nose for goal. His ability to get into scoring positions consistently and create opportunities will make it a difficult afternoon for the Pyramids’ defence.

Sharp Finisher: Rayners has impressive values in shots inside the box, shots taken, and goals per 90, suggesting he is highly effective in dangerous areas and knows how to find space and convert chances.

Movement in Final Third: His touches in the opponent’s box and final third entries reflect a player who is constantly positioning himself to be a threat behind the defensive line.

Chance Creation: Beyond scoring, Rayners contributes to the build-up with respectable values in chances created, making him a dual threat as both scorer and provider.

Lively in Attack: His radar shows a high attacking work rate, engaging in multiple shot attempts and actively contributing in and around the box.

Lucas Ribeiro

Lucas Ribeiro Costa has enjoyed another standout season leading the line for Mamelodi Sundowns, bringing flair, creativity, and a sharp eye for goal to the heart of their attack. Renowned for his ability to find pockets of space between the lines, Costa is most dangerous when receiving the ball on the half-turn, using his technical finesse and quick feet to glide past defenders in 1v1 situations.

Goals: Domestically, he’s been prolific – currently the top scorer in the 2024/25 Betway Premiership, though he’s yet to find the net in this season’s CAF Champions League. Could the final be his moment?

Shots: Averaging three shots per game, with most efforts coming from inside the box, he remains a constant goal threat.

Overall: Whether through his movement, shot volume, or creative link-up play, Costa is a vital weapon in Sundowns’ arsenal as they aim to carry a decisive advantage to North Africa for the second leg on June 1st.