African football fans will turn their attention to Pretoria on Sunday evening as Mamelodi Sundowns host AS FAR in the first leg of the 2026 CAF Champions League final at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
The highly anticipated showdown brings together two clubs chasing continental glory after impressive campaigns filled with surprises and dramatic knockout victories.
The Moroccan side enters the final hoping to end a 41-year wait for another African title, having last lifted the trophy in 1985.
Reaching the final already marks a major achievement for AS FAR after years away from the top stage of African club football.
Meanwhile, Sundowns are aiming to take a decisive advantage into the return leg in Rabat on May 24 as they pursue the second CAF Champions League title in the club's history.
The South African giants have established themselves as one of the continent’s most consistent and dominant teams in recent years thanks to their tactical discipline and attacking quality.
This season’s CAF Champions League has produced several surprises, with neither finalist finishing top of their group during the group stage.
AS FAR advanced as runners-up behind Al Ahly in Group B, while Sundowns qualified behind Al Hilal in Group C.
AS FAR built their run on strong defensive organization, conceding only two goals during the group stage, while Sundowns have turned Loftus Versfeld into a fortress, remaining unbeaten in their last 13 continental home matches with eight wins and five draws.
The Moroccan club will be hoping to overcome Sundowns’ experience and attacking strength in Pretoria before hosting the decisive second leg in Rabat next week.
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