THE FUSE

Mamelodi Sundowns sealed a 2-0 aggregate win over Esperance de Tunis. Finishing the job with a 1-0 victory in front of a packed Loftus Versfeld on Saturday.

Brayan Leon once again stepped up in a big moment. The Colombian forward won a penalty in the first half, saw his effort saved. But reacted quickly to score from the rebound.

Esperance did threaten late on, hitting the crossbar. But Sundowns stayed disciplined and saw the game out to reach their fourth CAF Champions League final.

R97 MILLION ON THE LINE FOR SUNDOWNS

This year’s final comes with serious rewards. CAF recently confirmed an increase in prize money, with the winners set to take home $6 million (R97.8) million. While the runner-up prize is $2,000,000 (R32.6 Million).

“The winner of the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League 2025/26 will receive USD 6 Million, a 50% increase… a 100% increase,” CAF announced on 9 March 2026.

For Sundowns, it is not just about lifting the trophy. That kind of money would further strengthen their position as one of the top clubs on the continent, both on and off the pitch.

Speaking after sealing the final spot, Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso sent a plea to the Premier Soccer League and South African Football Association.

“Just a word for South Africa to support all the team that play international competitions,” Cardoso told SABC Sport after the game.

“South Africa should be proud of the job its teams have been doing in the past. SuperSport, Stellenbosch, Orlando Pirates last year, Mamelodi Sundowns for years to go,” the Portuguese coach continued.

“So, it’s important to create conditions so that these teams can succeed and make the difference because taking South Africa to international level is what everybody wants.

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“At the same time, you saw joy you need to be fit it’s possible to do it. It’s the way Sundowns succeeds and we leave and that’s the way I have to help the boys to be,” Cardoso added.

FINAL SHOWDOWN AGAINST AS FAR

Standing in Sundowns’ way are Moroccan gaints AS FAR, who come into the final after winning their semi-final 2-1 on aggregate against RS Berkane.

The first leg final between Sundowns and AS FAR will be played in Tshwane on 15 May, where Kabo Yellow will look to build an advantage at home before travelling to Morocco for the return leg on 24 May in Rabat.

With experience, depth and momentum on their side, Sundowns now have a real chance to win a second CAF Champions League title since 2016, while AS FAR could lift their first since 1985.

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WILL SUNDOWNS WIN THEIR SECOND CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE TITLE?

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