Sundowns set for ASFAR FC Showdown in CAF Champions League final
African club football braces for a blockbuster finale as South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns and Morocco’s ASFAR secure their spots in the 2026 CAF Champions League final.
Sundowns, widely regarded as one of the continent’s most formidable sides, sealed their place with a composed 1-0 victory over Espérance Sportive de Tunis in Pretoria, completing a 2-0 aggregate win. It marks a second consecutive final appearance for the Brazilians, underlining their consistency at the highest level.
At a packed Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Brayan León once again proved decisive, his first-half strike enough to settle the tie. From there, Sundowns showcased their trademark discipline and control, shutting out the Tunisian giants to confirm their growing dominance in African football. As they chase a second Champions League crown ten years after their 2016 triumph the Pretoria outfit look every bit a team built for the big occasion.
Their opponents, ASFAR, took a different route but showed equal resolve. Armed with a 2-0 first-leg advantage over RS Berkane, courtesy of Ahmed Hammoudan and Khalid Ouarkhane, the Moroccan side approached the return leg with caution and composure.
Despite falling to a 1-0 defeat in the second leg, Yassine Labhiri converting from the penalty spot ASFAR held firm to progress 2-1 on aggregate. The result sends them into their first Champions League final since their historic triumph in 1985, rekindling memories of past glory.
Now, the stage is set. Sundowns, appearing in their fourth final, bring experience, momentum, and a well-drilled system. ASFAR arrive with resilience, hunger, and a chance to script history once more.
For Sundowns, it is a shot at cementing a modern dynasty. For ASFAR, an opportunity to bridge four decades and reclaim continental supremacy.
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