The excitement is building as Mamelodi Sundowns stand just one match away from making history.
If they lift the CAF Champions League trophy this Sunday, they’ll become only the second South African club ever to claim this prestigious title — and the first to do it twice.
That’s a huge deal for the club and the whole country’s football scene.
First Leg Ends in a Nail-Biting Draw
Last Saturday, the first leg of the final took place in Tshwane, and it was a tense affair that ended 1-1. For the home fans, it didn’t feel like a great result.
Lucas Ribeiro gave Sundowns the lead, but just as the match seemed to be closing, Walid El Karti scored in stoppage time to even things up for Pyramid FC. That late equalizer certainly added pressure heading into the return leg.
Bennedict Vilakazi Shares His Thoughts on Sundowns’ Line-Up
Looking ahead to the big second leg in Egypt, former Orlando Pirates forward Bennedict Vilakazi weighed in on what Sundowns might need to do to secure the trophy.
Speaking to iDiski Times, Vilakazi suggested some key tactical changes.
He said, “Sundowns are still very much in this. It’s down to the coach now.
If he really wants to win, there’s a simple way to make that happen.”
Vilakazi advised removing Arthur Sales from the lineup and bringing in Themba Zwane — affectionately called ‘Mshishi’ — along with Lucas Ribeiro.
He suggested positioning Zwane and Ribeiro just behind Iqraam Rayners, creating a strong attacking setup supported by three midfielders.
“If Sundowns don’t have Ribeiro and Mshishi operating in those spaces, they’re likely to lose,” Vilakazi added, highlighting the importance of those creative players in the team’s strategy.
Where and When to Watch the Decisive Match
The final showdown is set for 7 PM this Sunday at the iconic 30 June Stadium in Cairo, Egypt.
Fans on both sides will be glued to their screens as the Sundowns push to complete their historic run.