Sundowns Aim to Shed ‘Chokers’ Label in CAF Champions League Final

Mamelodi Sundowns from South Africa enter the CAF Champions League final as strong favourites to clinch their second title when they take on Pyramids. However, the Cairo outfit has demonstrated their competitiveness by disrupting the traditional dominance of Egyptian football.

The Sundowns, based in Pretoria and previous winners of the continental crown in 2016, will kick off the first leg of the final at Loftus Versfeld this Saturday before heading to Cairo for the second leg on June 1.

Renowned for their consistent performances, the South Africans have made it to at least the quarter-finals in seven of the past eight tournaments.

Despite their impressive track record and having previously navigated the group stages with remarkable success—including a record for the highest points total—they have built a reputation for faltering during the knockout rounds.

Last month, they appeared to be on the brink of elimination for the third year in a row during the semi-finals, but a last-gasp own goal allowed them to secure a 1-1 draw against reigning champions Al Ahly of Egypt, advancing them to the final on the away goals rule.

Under the guidance of their Portuguese coach, Miguel Cardoso, the Sundowns are owned by the family of Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe, one of Africa’s wealthiest individuals.

Motsepe’s significant investment in the club has provided it with resources that greatly surpass those of nearly all their rivals.

Just last week, they clinched a remarkable eighth consecutive South African Premiership title, and next month they will represent their nation at the Club World Cup with a squad enhanced by new signings from Argentina, Brazil, and Chile.

Pyramids have emerged as a formidable force, having been established in 2008 and relocating to Cairo a decade later after a takeover by Saudi investors.

The club is now owned by investors from the United Arab Emirates, giving them the financial capability to challenge both Al Ahly and Zamalek for Egypt’s elite talent, along with bolstering their roster with players sourced from across Africa.

This marks Pyramids’ inaugural appearance in the Champions League final, achieving this milestone on just their second attempt.

They are also vying for their first Egyptian league title and set to compete in the cup final against Zamalek on June 5.