Mamelodi Sundowns have finally departed for Morocco ahead of the second leg of the CAF Champions League final after travel plans were delayed by permit issues involving Moroccan authorities. The Pretoria-based club left OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday morning, nearly a full day later than originally scheduled, as uncertainty briefly surrounded whether the team would be allowed to land in Rabat.
The delay comes at a crucial moment for Sundowns, who carry a narrow 1-0 advantage into the final against Moroccan side AS FAR. The second leg is scheduled to take place on Sunday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, where Sundowns will attempt to secure their second CAF Champions League title.
The situation also drew assistance from South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco), highlighting the growing logistical and diplomatic complexity surrounding international football travel.
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Sundowns Forced to Delay Morocco Departure
Sundowns were initially expected to travel to Morocco on Tuesday ahead of the highly anticipated final.
However, the club reportedly encountered delays after failing to receive the necessary landing permit approval from Moroccan authorities in time for departure.
The delay forced the club to seek assistance from South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation.
Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri confirmed that the department had been assisting the club.
“Our mission has been assisting Sundowns in this matter. On matters like this, when South African delegations are in other countries on important matters, our embassies will always try to facilitate,” Phiri said.
Although Sundowns eventually departed on Wednesday morning, uncertainty reportedly remained around final landing clearance at the time of departure.
When Is the CAF Champions League Final?
Mamelodi Sundowns will face Moroccan side AS FAR in the second leg of the CAF Champions League final on Sunday, 24 May 2026, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
| Fixture | Date | Venue | Kick Off |
|---|---|---|---|
| AS FAR vs Mamelodi Sundowns | Sunday, 24 May 2026 | Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, Rabat | TBC |
Sundowns carry a narrow 1-0 advantage into the decisive second leg after securing victory at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
Sundowns Chasing Historic Second CAF Title
The Moroccan trip could become one of the most significant moments in recent South African football history.
Sundowns are attempting to secure their second CAF Champions League title, nearly a decade after winning their first under former coach Pitso Mosimane in 2016.
The Pretoria club currently holds a slim 1-0 advantage after defeating AS FAR in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
However, football analysts say Sundowns may regret several missed opportunities from the opening leg if the final becomes tightly contested in Morocco.
The club will now hope the travel disruption does not negatively affect preparations ahead of the decisive fixture.
Aubrey Modiba Says Sundowns Still Believe in League Title Race
While preparing for the CAF final, Sundowns players are also closely monitoring developments in the Betway Premiership title race.
Defender Aubrey Modiba admitted that the squad followed Orlando Pirates’ recent draw against Durban City closely, as it reopened a small window of hope for Sundowns in the domestic title race.
Pirates were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw, preventing them from taking full control of the league standings heading into the final weekend.
Speaking after Sundowns’ first leg victory over AS FAR, Modiba said the team still believes anything is possible.
“We always believe, anything can happen,” Modiba said.
The league title race is now expected to go down to the final round of fixtures this weekend.
Orlando Pirates Still Hold Strong Position
Despite Sundowns’ renewed optimism, Orlando Pirates remain in a strong position heading into their final match against ORBIT College at Mbombela Stadium.
Pirates are aiming to end Sundowns’ dominance after the Tshwane giants secured eight consecutive league titles.
If Pirates fail to secure maximum points, Sundowns could still mathematically remain in contention depending on other results.
The possibility of Sundowns winning both the CAF Champions League and another domestic title has intensified attention around the club’s final matches of the season.
Why the CAF Final Matters Beyond Football
The CAF Champions League final also carries broader significance for South African football.
If Sundowns lift the trophy, they would become the first South African club to win the Champions League twice.
Orlando Pirates remain the only other South African side to have won the competition, lifting the trophy in 1995.
Sports analysts say another continental title for a South African club could:
- Raise the international profile of the PSL
- Increase investment interest in local football
- Strengthen South Africa’s football reputation
- Improve player market visibility
- Boost continental competition standards
The final also places Gauteng football back at the centre of African club football discussions.
Travel Delays Raise Questions Around International Sports Logistics
The permit issue has also raised questions about international sports travel logistics and coordination between football authorities, governments and diplomatic structures.
Large sporting delegations often require:
- Special flight permits
- Diplomatic coordination
- Security clearances
- Immigration approvals
- Airport and landing permissions
Sports administrators say late disruptions can affect team preparation, recovery schedules and training sessions ahead of major finals.
Gauteng Football Fans Closely Following Final Preparations
Football supporters across Gauteng have been closely monitoring Sundowns’ preparations as excitement builds ahead of Sunday’s final.
The club’s strong support base in Tshwane and across the province has intensified local interest in the fixture, particularly given the historic implications attached to the match.
Sports bars, fan parks and viewing venues across Gauteng are also expected to attract large crowds for the second leg.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
For Gauteng residents and football supporters, Sundowns’ CAF Champions League campaign continues highlighting the province’s importance within South African football.
A potential continental title could:
- Increase football tourism
- Boost local football visibility
- Strengthen Gauteng’s sporting reputation
- Inspire youth football development
- Increase commercial interest in local football
The situation also demonstrates how international sporting events increasingly intersect with diplomacy, logistics and national representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Sundowns’ Morocco trip delayed?
The club reportedly experienced delays linked to landing permit approval issues involving Moroccan authorities.
Did Sundowns eventually leave South Africa?
Yes. The team departed from OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday morning.
Who are Sundowns playing in the CAF final?
Mamelodi Sundowns are facing Moroccan club AS FAR in the CAF Champions League final.
What is the current aggregate score?
Sundowns lead 1-0 after winning the first leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
Could Sundowns still win the Betway Premiership?
Yes. The title race remains mathematically open heading into the final round of fixtures.
What Happens Next?
Mamelodi Sundowns are expected to complete final preparations in Morocco ahead of Sunday’s decisive CAF Champions League final against AS FAR.
Attention will also remain on the Betway Premiership title race this weekend, with both Sundowns and Orlando Pirates still involved in a dramatic end to the domestic season.
