Mamelodi Sundowns are on the cusp of history as they face AS FAR in the CAF Champions League final second leg at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday night. A win would end the franchise’s 10-year wait for a second continental crown and cement the legacy of coach Miguel Cardoso, who has endured final heartbreaks in the past.
The Brazilians hold a crucial 1–0 advantage from the first leg at home, and anything other than a defeat would steer them to the title. This success would not only bring glory to the team but also serve as a fitting farewell for veteran duo Denis Onyango and Themba Zwane, who are likely to hang up their gloves and boots at the end of the campaign.
Redemption and Legacy
A Sundowns triumph would seal immense personal achievements for Zwane, who has given his all to the team over the years and has become a genuine demigod in South African football. The 36-year-old has witnessed the burning desire of his teammates to get their hands on the trophy, especially after last season’s near miss in the final against Pyramids. As stated on the CAF Champions League Wikipedia page, the competition is the premier club competition in African football.
“Going into this final, we know what to expect and what to do. The only aim is to lift the trophy after the tournament. That’s all,” Zwane said ahead of the team’s delayed departure to Rabat, via Casablanca. One player who has shown immense mental strength this season is Peter Shalulile, who has battled injuries and limited game-time but has remained a vital dressing-room figure.
Key Players
Some key players to watch in the final include:
- Themba Zwane: The veteran midfielder is looking to win his second continental crown with Sundowns.
- Peter Shalulile: The Namibian international has been a vital dressing-room figure and will be looking to cement his legendary status as the current PSL era’s top goalscorer.
- Denis Onyango: The veteran goalkeeper is likely to hang up his gloves at the end of the campaign and will be looking to go out on a high note.
A Sundowns win would not only bring glory to the team but also serve as a fitting farewell for these veteran players. With the support of the South African Football Association, the team is ready to take on the challenge and make history.
