The stage is set for a high-stakes finale to the 2025/26 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League as Morocco’s AS FAR welcome South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns to the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday.
Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 local time (19:00 GMT), with Sundowns holding a narrow 1–0 lead from the first leg in Pretoria, leaving the tie finely balanced heading into the decisive clash.
Beyond continental glory, a record US$6 million winner’s prize and qualification for multiple international competitions add further weight to the encounter, underlining the growing global profile of African club football.
The eventual champions will secure a place in the 2026 CAF Super Cup against USM Alger, as well as entry into the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and the expanded 2029 FIFA Club World Cup.
Sundowns edged the first leg courtesy of a superb Aubrey Modiba free-kick but were left to rue missed opportunities that could have given them a stronger cushion. The South African side, champions in 2016, are now aiming for a second continental title and a measure of redemption after last season’s final defeat to Egypt’s Pyramids FC.
Head coach Miguel Cardoso acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting his side’s experience in recent finals but admitting that converting a first-leg advantage away from home will be crucial.
AS FAR, meanwhile, remain firmly in contention despite the narrow deficit and will look to leverage their strong home record and passionate support in Rabat. The Moroccan giants are chasing a first Champions League crown since 1985.
Head coach Alexandre Santos said his side are prepared for a tough test against a disciplined Sundowns outfit but stressed that belief remains high ahead of the return leg.
