Gauteng has once again proven why it is proudly known as the Home of Champions, following Mamelodi Sundowns’ historic 2026 CAF Champions League victory, their second continental crown after first lifting Africa’s biggest club football prize in 2016.
The Brazilians secured the title after a hard-fought 2-1 aggregate victory over AS FAR of Morocco, drawing 1-1 in Rabat after winning the first leg 1-0 in Pretoria. Teboho Mokoena’s decisive strike and Ronwen Williams’ crucial penalty save sealed a historic moment for South African football and for Gauteng sport.
This latest triumph places Sundowns among Africa’s elite and confirms Gauteng’s continued dominance on the biggest stages of football.
Mamelodi Sundowns by the Numbers
- Founded: 1970
- CAF Champions League titles: 2 (2016, 2026)
- CAF Champions League final appearances: 4
- Domestic crowns: Multiple PSL / Betway Premiership titles – South Africa’s most dominant modern-era club
- Up next: Qualified for the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup and the CAF Intercontinental competition
Sundowns’ consistency has made Tshwane a powerhouse of African football.
Inside the Final at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium
ASFAR dominated the early stages, pressing aggressively and controlling possession through the opening 20 minutes. Mohamed Hrimat fired wide in the 16th minute as the Moroccan side searched for an early breakthrough.
Sundowns gradually grew into the contest. Kutlwano Lethlaku forced a save from goalkeeper Ahmed Tagnaouti, while Tashreeq Matthews tested the angles with a long-range effort.
The match then turned on three defining moments:
- 40′ – ASFAR penalty: A VAR review awarded the hosts a spot kick after Divine Lunga’s foul on Reda Slim. Hrimat converted to level the aggregate.
- 45+7′ – Mokoena equaliser: Brayan Leon and Tashreeq Matthews combined in attack before Teboho Mokoena smashed a half-volley off the underside of the crossbar and into the net – a priceless away goal.
- 72′ – Williams’ match-winning save: After a second VAR-awarded penalty, Sundowns captain Ronwen Williams produced a stunning stop off Hrimat to keep his side ahead.
Coach Miguel Cardoso’s tactical management slowed the tempo, and Sundowns saw out the closing minutes with discipline to seal the aggregate victory.
Sundowns Grew Into the Game
As the first half progressed, Mamelodi Sundowns began attacking with more confidence. Kutlwano Lethlaku forced a save from goalkeeper Ahmed Tagnaouti with a low effort.
Soon after, Tashreeq Matthews attempted a long-range strike, but his shot drifted wide.
Sundowns looked sharper in transition. Their midfield also started controlling the pace of the game.
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ASFAR Took the Lead Through a Penalty
ASFAR received a penalty after a VAR review in the 37th minute. Divine Lunga fouled Reda Slim inside the box while trying to recover possession.
Mohamed Hrimat converted the penalty calmly in the 40th minute. The goal made the score 1-1 on aggregate.
Moments later, ASFAR nearly doubled their advantage. Abdelfettah Hadraf connected with a cross inside the box but missed the target.
Teboho Mokoena Delivered a Crucial Equaliser
Just before halftime, Sundowns found a priceless away goal. Brayan Leon and Tashreeq Matthews combined brilliantly in attack.
Teboho Mokoena then smashed a powerful half-volley into the net. The ball struck the underside of the crossbar before crossing the line.
The goal shifted momentum back toward Sundowns. It also restored their aggregate lead heading into the second half.
Mamelodi Sundowns Controlled the Second Half
After the break, Mamelodi Sundowns managed the match intelligently. They slowed the tempo and limited ASFAR’s attacking chances.
Their defensive organisation frustrated the home side. Meanwhile, the midfield continued recycling possession effectively.
Coach Miguel Cardoso’s tactical adjustments also helped Sundowns maintain control during key moments.
Ronwen Williams Produced a Match-Winning Save
The game produced another dramatic moment in the 72nd minute. Ronwen Williams collided with Youssef El Fahli after fumbling the ball inside the area.
Following another VAR review, the referee awarded ASFAR a second penalty.
However, Williams responded brilliantly. The Sundowns captain saved Hrimat’s penalty with a superb stop.
That save proved decisive. ASFAR lost momentum immediately after the missed opportunity.
Sundowns Secured a Famous Aggregate Victory
ASFAR pushed forward during the final minutes. However, Sundowns defended with discipline and composure.
The Moroccan supporters slowly left the stadium as their hopes faded. Eventually, the match ended 1-1 on the night.
Mamelodi Sundowns officially won the final 2-1 on aggregate. The result secured another historic chapter for the club.
Gauteng MEC Praises Mamelodi Sundowns
Gauteng MEC for Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation, Lebogang Maile, congratulated the club after the victory.
Maile said the achievement confirmed Sundowns’ strength in continental football. He also praised the team’s consistency throughout the competition.
The MEC added that the victory inspired people across Gauteng and South Africa.
Orlando Pirates Add to Gauteng’s Glory
The 2025/26 season has been extraordinary for Gauteng football. Orlando Pirates were crowned Betway Premiership champions, bringing the domestic league title back to Soweto and reinforcing the province’s football excellence. Their title-winning campaign showcased resilience, tactical discipline, and attacking brilliance.
Pirates remain one of South Africa’s most decorated clubs:
- CAF Champions League winners (1995) – the first South African club to achieve this
- Multiple domestic league titles
- Historic MTN8 and Nedbank Cup success
Their latest league triumph confirms Gauteng’s unmatched football pedigree.
Why Gauteng Is the Home of Champions
Gauteng’s continued dominance is no accident. The province combines:
- World-class football infrastructure
- Elite academies producing top talent
- Passionate, loyal supporters
- Historic clubs with deep winning cultures
- A proven record of continental and domestic success
From Soweto to Tshwane, Johannesburg to Pretoria, Gauteng continues to shape African football history.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ second star is not just a victory for one club – it is another chapter in Gauteng’s legacy as Africa’s true Home of Champions.
2016. 2026. Two stars. One province. Champions live here.
FAQs About Mamelodi Sundowns Win 2026 CAF Champions League
How many CAF Champions League titles has Mamelodi Sundowns won?
Mamelodi Sundowns have now won two CAF Champions League titles, in 2016 and 2026.
Who scored for Sundowns in the CAF final?
Teboho Mokoena scored Sundowns’ goal in the second leg final against ASFAR.
What was the aggregate score in the final?
Mamelodi Sundowns defeated ASFAR 2-1 on aggregate.
Why This Title Matters for Sundowns
This CAF Champions League triumph strengthens Sundowns’ reputation as one of Africa’s elite clubs.
The team showed consistency throughout the tournament. They also demonstrated strong squad depth and tactical maturity.
Importantly, the victory adds another major trophy to the club’s growing legacy. It also confirms South Africa’s continued influence in African football.