By 
RABAT — Mamelodi Sundowns have been crowned the 2026 CAF Champions League winners following a thrilling 1-1 draw against Moroccan heavyweights AS FAR at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, securing a hard-fought 2-1 aggregate victory.
The hosts started aggressively, testing the Brazilians’ defense early. Sundowns found their footing when Kutlwano Letlhaku tested the opposition keeper in the 24th minute. However, the opening breakthrough belonged to AS FAR. Following a lengthy VAR review, Divine Lunga was penalized for a foul in the box, and the hosts calmly converted the 38th-minute penalty, sending Ronwen Williams the wrong way.
Just before the interval, the visitors struck back with a moment of pure magic. A brilliant combination play saw Brayan Leon find Tashreeq Matthews, who flicked the ball into the path of midfield maestro Teboho Mokoena. Mokoena unleashed a thunderous half-volley to level the score and net a crucial away goal.
Williams Turns Hero in High-Stakes Second Half
The second half proved to be a defensive masterclass from the South African champions. AS FAR mounted immense pressure, creating numerous entries into the box. In the 60th minute, a defensive scramble resulted in Williams committing a foul in the penalty area, giving the Moroccan side a golden opportunity to restore their lead. Redemption was swift, however, as the Bafana Bafana shot-stopper dived brilliantly to his right to deny the spot-kick.
Despite eight minutes of frantic stoppage time and a disallowed goal for the Brazilians, Sundowns’ “wall of yellow” held steadfast against the onslaught. The 1-1 draw was ultimately enough to see Masandawana lift the continent’s most prestigious club trophy.
