Mamelodi Sundowns’ preparations for the biggest match of their season have been thrown into unexpected turbulence ahead of Sunday’s CAF Champions League final against Morocco’s AS FAR. The Brazilians only arrived in North Africa a day later than scheduled after their charter flight was delayed at OR Tambo International Airport due to complications surrounding a landing permit.
The disruption forced the team into an unplanned stop in Libreville, Gabon, for refueling before continuing their journey to Morocco — costing coach Miguel Cardoso and his squad a crucial day of preparation ahead of a match that could reshape the club’s modern legacy.
While Sundowns have remained focused publicly, the delay adds an extra layer of pressure heading into an already daunting assignment. The South African champions will walk into a sold-out Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, where thousands of passionate home supporters are expected to create an intimidating atmosphere in support of an AS FAR side chasing history of its own.
The Moroccan giants are aiming to win Africa’s biggest club competition for the first time since 1985, ending a four-decade wait for continental success. Backed by home advantage and a crowd desperate to witness history, AS FAR are expected to test Sundowns mentally as much as tactically.
For Sundowns, however, the opportunity is enormous.
Victory on Sunday would earn the Tshwane giants a reported USD 6 million prize purse and secure a second CAF Champions League title, adding to the club’s landmark triumph in 2016. It would further cement Sundowns’ status among Africa’s elite and strengthen their growing reputation on the global stage.
Lifting the trophy would also unlock several major opportunities beyond the immediate financial reward. Sundowns would qualify for the CAF Super Cup, earn a place in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, and secure participation in the expanded 2029 FIFA Club World Cup — competitions carrying further prestige, exposure and commercial value.
The occasion has stirred emotions among supporters across South Africa. Social media platforms have been filled with throwback clips from the club’s historic 2016 Champions League-winning campaign, alongside memes, predictions and nervous reactions from fans aware of what is at stake. Many believe another continental title would elevate this Sundowns generation alongside the greatest teams in the club’s history.
The final also represents another defining moment in Sundowns’ long-term ambition of becoming a consistent force in African football. Significant investment over the years has transformed the club into one of the continent’s most dominant sides domestically, but continental titles remain the ultimate measure of success.
After travel disruptions, reduced preparation time and the pressure of playing away from home, Sundowns now stand 90 minutes — or more — away from rewriting their history once again. Whether the delayed journey proves a minor obstacle or a costly setback will be decided under the lights in Morocco, where glory, legacy and millions of dollars are on the line.
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