Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation hails Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAF glory

Mamelodi Sundowns have been crowned CAF Champions League winners, with the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation leading the celebrations. In a statement, the department declared: “History MADE! Congratulations to Mamelodi Sundowns on being crowned CAF Champions League winners. Bafana Ba Style continue to make South Africa proud on the continental stage.”

The Brazilians secured their second continental star after a tense 1-1 draw against AS FAR in Rabat, which sealed a 2-1 aggregate victory. Having won the first leg 1-0 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, Sundowns held firm in Morocco to confirm their place among Africa’s elite.

This triumph makes Sundowns the only South African team to have won the CAF Champions League twice, following their first success in 2016. The achievement underscores their dominance not only in domestic football but also across the continent, where they continue to raise the South African flag high.

For head coach Miguel Cardoso, the victory carries personal significance. After falling short in 2024 and 2025, the Portuguese tactician finally lifted his first CAF Champions League trophy. His tactical acumen and determination guided Sundowns through a challenging campaign to ultimate glory.

The final itself was a battle of resilience, with AS FAR pressing hard to overturn the deficit. Sundowns’ defensive discipline and attacking sharpness ensured they held their ground, with the 1-1 draw proving enough to spark jubilant celebrations both in Rabat and back home in South Africa.

For the fans, this victory is more than just silverware — it is a year-long festival of pride. Sundowns supporters are expected to celebrate throughout 2026, their chants of “Bafana Ba Style” echoing across stadiums and streets. With continental glory secured, Sundowns have once again proven themselves as the heartbeat of South African football.