Mamelodi Sundowns fell short in their second CAF Champions League final, raising questions about their continental aspirations.
Mamelodi Sundowns’ hopes of reclaiming the CAF Champions League title ended in agonising fashion as they lost 2-1 to Pyramids FC in Cairo, going down 3-2 on aggregate. The defeat marks Sundowns (2.85) as the first South African club to lose two Champions League finals, raising fresh concerns about their ability to finish on the continent’s biggest stage.
Sundowns’ Continental Ambitions Dashed
After being one of the dominant teams in African soccer for years, Sundowns once again fell short when it mattered most. Despite controlling possession early in the match and making few changes from the first leg, Masandawana struggled to convert chances. Defensive lapses, particularly Grant Kekana’s costly mistake that led to an opening goal for the Pyramids (2.48), proved costly. The inability to maintain composure under pressure highlighted a recurring issue for Sundowns in major finals.
Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams made some important saves, but it was Pyramids’ goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy who stood out, frustrating Sundowns’ attacking efforts throughout the match. Even with Sundowns pressing hard in the second half, the team couldn’t find the breakthrough that would have secured the trophy on away goals.
A Familiar Story Of Near Misses
This loss compounds Sundowns’ history of near misses in the Champions League final, a tough reality for a club that has dominated domestically but struggled to secure Africa’s top prize consistently. The second final defeat raises questions about the team’s mental toughness and tactical adaptability on the biggest stage. The repeated inability to close out the final despite strong campaigns suggests a psychological barrier that Sundowns must urgently address.
What This Means Moving Forward
The implications of this defeat extend beyond heartbreak—it demands reflection and rebuilding. Sundowns must now regroup quickly and focus on sustaining their domestic dominance while preparing for future continental challenges. Key players and coaching staff will be under pressure to find solutions to the recurring problems exposed in high-stakes matches.
For now, the dream of African Champions League glory for a second time slips away once more, leaving Sundowns to reflect on what could have been. The club’s stature in South Africa remains untarnished, but the path to continental triumph requires a new approach if Masandawana is to break the curse and rise to the summit of African soccer.
Club World Cup Challenge Awaits
Looking ahead, Sundowns will also be keen to make a strong impression at the upcoming Club World Cup. However, the shadow of this loss will linger, serving as a reminder of how fine the margins are at the top level—and how much work remains for Sundowns to truly conquer Africa.
