In the field of play, Mamelodi Sundowns have proved to be a strong side to be reckoned with, but that couldn’t be translated into winning any competition during the 2025/26 Betway Premiership that ended on Saturday, May 23.
Apart from losing the league title, the Miquel Cardoso coach side were also eliminated in the domestic three cups, the MTN8, the Carling Knockout Cup and the Nedbank Cup.
Despite losing only two league matches throughout the season, the Brazilians watched helplessly as Orlando Pirates snatched the title right under their nose with 69 points, with just a point separating them.
It is not all lost for the Chlorokop based side as they have one more chance to bring something home, and this time, the biggest title on the continental in a form of CAF Champions League at the expense of AS Far who host them on Sunday, May 24. Victory agaist As Far at this sold out match in Morocco will see Masandawa achieve their second star engraved on their jersey after having won the competition in 2016 while they were still coached by Pitso Mosimane.
The Brazilians are ready for the 2nd leg of the #TotalEnergiesCAFCL final👆
⚽ AS FAR vs Mamelodi Sundowns
🏆 CAF Champions League
📆 24 May
⏰ 21H00 SAST
🏟 Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium
📺 SS 209 & SABC 2 #Sundowns #AreyengMasandawanaUntilItsDone pic.twitter.com/Ahes6M8wEW— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) May 22, 2026
Sundowns are going to this second leg of the final match at Rabat in Morocco highly motivated after securing a 1-0 lead in the first leg which was marred by riots a week ago at the Loftus Stadium, a courtesy goal of Aubrey Modiba who brilliantly scored from a free kick.
For Sundowns goalkeeper-cum captain, Ronwen Williams, the second leg of this competition which will be televised in more than 100 countries is more than just the game.
“I think we’ve learned valuable lessons along the way, on our path, on our journey,” said Williams.
“Lessons that hurt, you know, in the moment. I can remember how tough it was for us to overcome that heartache and pain.
“And I think this season that we’ve learned, we know how to grind out results.
“We know how important it is not to concede at home.
“So I think this season and this final, we’re going there with a clear understanding of what we need to do to win this tournament.” said Williams who was widely critised after the club lost their league match against TS Galaxy 3-2, the match which they should have won at all cost to retain their Betway Premiership title.
A season of hard work, sacrifice and unforgettable moments 💛
Through every challenge and victory, the Yellow Nation has stood with us every step of the way.
Thank you Masandawana! 👆#Sundowns #BetwayPrem #AreyengMasandawanaUntilItsDone pic.twitter.com/z9GVJqCpcm
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) May 23, 2026
