Mamelodi Sundowns have once again staked their claim as a continental force. After dominating the local league with their eighth consecutive Betway Premiership title, the Brazilians turned their attention to the 2025 CAF Champions League, displaying the kind of resilience and tactical brilliance that has become their trademark.
Group Stage Brilliance: Taming the Group of Death
Sundowns were drawn in a challenging Group B alongside Moroccan heavyweights Raja Casablanca, AS FAR Rabat, and Congolese side Maniema Union.
Key Performances in the Group Stage:
- Victory vs Raja Casablanca (Home): A confident 2-1 win at Loftus Versfeld signalled their intent.
- Wins vs AS FAR and Maniema: Dominant performances against the North and Central African opponents showed their versatility.
- Setback in Casablanca: A narrow 1-0 away loss to Raja was the only blemish in an otherwise commanding group phase.
Despite the loss, Sundowns demonstrated tactical flexibility, often rotating formations mid-match to neutralise threats and maximise scoring chances. They topped the group, booking a ticket to the knockouts.
Quarter-Final: Discipline Delivers Against Esperance
The quarter-final clash against Esperance de Tunis was a test of character. Known for their physicality and continental pedigree, Esperance posed a serious threat.
- First Leg (Home): Sundowns snatched a crucial 1-0 victory, courtesy of a set-piece goal and defensive solidarity.
- Second Leg (Away): A disciplined 0-0 draw in Tunisia confirmed their place in the semi-finals.
This phase was a showcase of game management under pressure, with coach Cardoso’s emphasis on shape and transition proving crucial.
Semi-Final: Outthinking the African Champions
In a tense two-legged semi-final, Sundowns squared off against Al Ahly, the most decorated team in African club football.
- First Leg (Pretoria): A tightly contested 0-0 stalemate.
- Second Leg (Cairo): Another goalless draw, but Sundowns progressed on the away goals rule thanks to their superior chances created and possession stats.
Their defensive structure held firm, and the ability to frustrate Al Ahly on home soil will be remembered as one of their most intelligent tactical performances in recent memory.
The Miguel Cardoso Effect: Tactics, Trust, Triumph
At the heart of this campaign is head coach Miguel Cardoso, whose European methods and analytical approach have transformed the squad’s mentality.
Cardoso’s Winning Formula:
- Fluid formations: Adapted to every opponent with a unique setup.
- Compact defence: One of the few teams to concede fewer than five goals across all stages.
- Smart rotation: Key players remained fresh and injury-free throughout the tournament.
His leadership has not only delivered results but redefined how Sundowns approach high-pressure fixtures.
One Step from Glory: Can Sundowns Bring It Home?
With only one hurdle remaining, Mamelodi Sundowns now await their opponent in the CAF Champions League final. Their journey has been defined by:
- Domestic domination
- Continental consistency
- Strategic excellence
The final offers a chance to etch their name once again into African football history—and judging by their current form, few would bet against them.
Fast Facts: Sundowns’ 2025 CAF Campaign at a Glance
| Stat | Figure |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 10 |
| Wins | 6 |
| Draws | 3 |
| Losses | 1 |
| Goals Scored | 11 |
| Goals Conceded | 3 |
| Clean Sheets | 6 |
Check also: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Pyramids: The Battle Begins in CAF Champions League final
Whether they lift the trophy or not, Mamelodi Sundowns’ road to the final has already cemented their status as a continental powerhouse. With discipline, flair, and strategic brilliance, the Brazilians are not just chasing a title—they’re crafting a legacy.
