A Night of Drama in Rabat
Mamelodi Sundowns, affectionately known as "the Brazilians," lifted the African Champions League trophy for the second time in their history, finishing a two‑legged contest with a 2‑1 aggregate victory over FAR Rabat. Their previous triumph came in 2016, and the win marks a redemption after they fell to Pyramids FC in last year’s final.
The second leg in Rabat unfolded as a tightly contested affair. Teboho Mokoena opened the scoring for Sundowns just before the half‑hour mark, giving the South African side a slender lead. Midway through the second half, FAR Rabat earned a penalty, which Mohamed Hrimat converted to level the tie. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams sprang into action, saving Hrimat’s spot‑kick and preserving Sundowns’ advantage.
A second penalty awarded to FAR Rabat in the 74th minute offered the Moroccan club a chance to seize the lead, but Williams again proved decisive with another save. The match ended 1‑1 on the night, but the aggregate score of 2‑1 in favour of Sundowns secured the championship.
The victory resonates beyond the pitch, echoing the club’s storied past. FAR Rabat, a historic powerhouse that captured the CAF title in 1985, pushed the South Africans to the brink, while Pyramids FC’s recent dominance added context to Sundowns’ long‑awaited return to the summit.
Key contributors from both squads were on display. For Sundowns, midfielders such as Divine Lunga and defender Reda Slim helped marshal the defense, while South African internationals Teboho Mokoena and Ronwen Williams delivered decisive moments. On the Rabat side, forwards Youssef El Fahli and Mohamed Hrimat showcased their attacking intent, with Hrimat’s penalty conversion highlighting his composure under pressure.