AS FAR Faces Mamelodi Sundowns in the Champions League Final
On Sunday, May 24, 2026, the Prince Moulay Abdellah Complex in Rabat will be the venue for a highly anticipated clash as AS FAR aims to secure its second African title. The military club, historically known for its competitive spirit, is set to battle against South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, who edged the first leg with a narrow 1-0 victory in Pretoria.
With a remarkable journey leading to this final, AS FAR finished second in their group and showcased resilience by eliminating the reigning champions, Pyramids, in the quarter-finals. Under the guidance of coach Alexandre Santos, the team approaches this match with renewed confidence and determination. Santos emphasized the importance of both physical and mental preparedness, highlighting the need for maximum concentration throughout the match. "Our playing style is clear and proactive. However, in such significant encounters, maintaining balance is crucial," he stated during a recent press conference. The coach also expressed optimism about the home crowd, believing that the support from local fans will be instrumental in achieving victory.
The excitement surrounding this final is palpable in Rabat, with tickets selling out in less than two hours after going on sale online. The Ultras Askary fan group is expected to transform the stadium into a formidable fortress, rallying the team towards a potential historic comeback. On the defensive front, AS FAR will benefit from the return of Senegalese defender Fallou Mendy, who has recovered from a thigh injury sustained during the semi-finals.
On the other hand, Mamelodi Sundowns, managed by Miguel Cardoso, will also field a bolstered squad with the return of central defender Grant Kekana from suspension. However, there are concerns regarding the fitness of Aubrey Modiba, who is facing a last-minute fitness test due to a hamstring issue.
The stakes are incredibly high for both teams; not only is the title on the line, but the winner will also secure a significant financial reward of $6 million, a 140% increase over the past five years, as announced by CAF President Patrice Motsepe. Additionally, the champion will earn a spot in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, placing them on the global stage.
Fans can catch the match live on Arryadia TNT and BeIN Sports 2 in Arabic, as well as BeIN Sports 2 in French, starting at 20:00 local time.
As reported by medias24.com.
