It has been a decade since the South African football club Mamelodi Sundowns celebrated their first CAF Champions League title, a momentous achievement marked by a victory over the Egyptian powerhouse Zamalek. Under the visionary leadership of Pitso Mosimane, they reached a historic milestone that has remained a benchmark for the club. Now, ten years later, the Sundowns have an opportunity to reclaim that glory, as they prepare to face the formidable AS FAR Rabat in the 2026 Champions League final. This matchup not only represents a chance for redemption but also highlights the challenges that lie ahead in their quest for continental dominance.
For most clubs, reaching the final of Africa’s premier club competition is a rare and significant accomplishment, a fact that the Sundowns are acutely aware of. Their journey to the finals has not been easy; having recently defeated the Tunisian side Espérance with a 2-0 aggregate score, they are set to make only their fourth appearance in this prestigious tournament. Notably, this marks their second consecutive final, following their participation in the 2025 edition, which was their first final in nearly a decade. Previous seasons have seen the team struggle during the knockout stages, often falling short in the quarterfinals and semifinals. Last season, they faced a tough defeat against Egypt's Pyramids, losing 3-2 on aggregate in the final.
The Road to Redemption
With the bitter taste of that loss still fresh, the Sundowns return to the finals with renewed determination. However, the challenge they face in 2026 is significant. AS FAR Rabat, while only making their second appearance in the Champions League final, have proven to be consistent performers in their domestic league, achieving top-two finishes over the past three seasons. Their historical success includes a Champions League victory in 1985, showcasing their experience and capability.
Leading the Sundowns into this critical match is their Portuguese coach, Miguel Cardoso, who is no stranger to the Champions League final stage. This is his third consecutive final, a feat that only two other coaches have achieved. Cardoso first reached the finals with Espérance in 2024 and subsequently led Sundowns to the finals last year. His accomplishments place him among an elite group, including Manuel José, who holds the record for the most titles in Champions League history.
Despite the accolades, Cardoso remains grounded, acknowledging the unique challenge of facing AS FAR Rabat. He emphasizes the importance of respect for their opponents, stating that the final will not be an easy task for Sundowns. Recognizing the strength of Rabat's squad, he cautions against complacency, asserting that the upcoming match may be more challenging than their previous semifinal encounter.
Balancing Ambition with Realism
Even with a strong continental presence, Cardoso has faced criticism regarding Sundowns' performance in domestic cup competitions. While the team has been dominant in the Premiership, currently chasing their ninth consecutive title, their last domestic knockout cup victory came during the 2021-22 season. Cardoso’s approach has shifted towards a more pragmatic style of play, which has drawn mixed reactions from supporters, some of whom have called for his dismissal in the past. Nevertheless, he remains focused on the team's collective achievements rather than individual accolades.
Expressing gratitude for the opportunities he has encountered, Cardoso emphasizes that his role is to create an environment conducive to success for his players. He remains unfazed by external pressures and is keen to enjoy the journey, recognizing the fleeting nature of life. The upcoming finals, scheduled to be played over two legs on May 15 in Pretoria and May 24 in Rabat, are a testament to the hard work and commitment of the Sundowns team. As they stand on the brink of potential glory, the club's focus will be on delivering a performance that honors their legacy.
As reported by dailymaverick.co.za.
