Mamelodi Sundowns crowned African champions after overcoming AS FAR

Mamelodi Sundowns crowned African champions after overcoming AS FAR

South African giants Mamelodi Sundowns claimed their second CAF Champions League title after securing a 2-1 aggregate victory over AS FAR in the final.

A 1-1 draw in Sunday’s second leg in Rabat proved enough for Sundowns, who had taken a 1-0 advantage into the match following their first-leg victory in Pretoria.

The hosts levelled the tie on aggregate five minutes before half-time when Mohamed Hrimat converted from the penalty spot after Divine Lunga was adjudged to have fouled Reda Slim.

However, Sundowns responded almost immediately. In first-half stoppage time, Teboho Mokoena produced a stunning half-volley that crashed in off the underside of the crossbar to restore the South Africans’ aggregate lead.

The goal proved decisive, leaving AS FAR needing two more goals because of the away-goals rule.

The Moroccan side were handed a lifeline in the 77th minute when they were awarded a second penalty following a VAR review. But Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams emerged as the hero, diving to his left to save Hrimat’s spot-kick and preserve his side’s advantage.

AS FAR pushed forward in the closing stages but could not find a breakthrough as Sundowns held firm through eight minutes of added time to secure the trophy.

The triumph gives Sundowns their first African title since 2016 and a second Champions League crown overall.

In addition to continental glory, the South African club will receive a record $6 million in prize money and have also secured qualification for the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup.

For AS FAR, it was a disappointing end to a memorable campaign as they fell short of winning Africa’s premier club competition for the first time since 1985.

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