Teboho Mokoena’s crucial away goal helped the South African giants seal a 2-1 aggregate victory at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium….reports Africa Daily News Desk
Mamelodi Sundowns clinched the 2026 CAF Champions League title after battling to a 1-1 draw against AS FAR in Morocco on Sunday night, securing a 2-1 aggregate triumph.
Midfielder Teboho Mokoena emerged as the hero for the visitors after scoring a decisive first half equaliser that handed Masandawana a vital away goal at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
The hosts started brightly and pushed forward early, but Sundowns’ defence stood firm with defenders Khuliso Mudau and Khulumani Ndamane making key interventions to deny AS FAR from capitalising on dangerous attacks.
The Moroccan side created several openings during the opening stages and eventually earned a penalty in the 38th minute following a lengthy VAR review after Aubrey Modiba Lunga was adjudged to have fouled an opponent inside the box. The spot kick was converted confidently as the hosts took the lead.
Sundowns nearly responded before the break when Brayan Leon was denied by the goalkeeper after a well worked move from the left flank.
Moments later, Mokoena delivered the breakthrough for the South African champions. A cross from Leon found Matthews, whose flick set up the midfielder for a powerful half volley that flew into the net to level the score before halftime.
AS FAR resumed the second half aggressively and continued to test Sundowns’ backline with repeated attacks. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was called into action on several occasions as the hosts searched for another goal.
The Moroccan side were awarded a second penalty after Williams fouled an opponent inside the area while attempting to gather a loose ball. However, the Sundowns captain redeemed himself by diving to his right to produce a crucial save.
Sundowns almost extended their lead late in the match when Adams fired wide from an Arthur Sales delivery, while AS FAR continued to pile pressure during eight minutes of stoppage time.
Despite sustained attacks from the hosts, the visitors held firm defensively to preserve the draw and secure the continental crown.
A late disallowed goal for Sundowns and several missed opportunities from AS FAR added to the tension before the final whistle confirmed Masandawana as African champions.
Sundowns started with Williams, Mudau, Cupido, Ndamane, Lunga, Mokoena, Adams, Santos, Letlhaku, Leon and Matthews.
