Mamelodi Sundowns FC claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over AS FAR Rabat in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria on Sunday evening, taking a slender advantage into the return fixture in Morocco.
Despite dominating large spells of the match and creating several clear chances, the South African champions were wasteful in front of goal but still managed to secure a crucial win.
The breakthrough came just before half-time when Tashreeq Matthews was fouled outside the box by Yunis Abdelhamid, earning Sundowns a dangerous free-kick. Aubrey Modiba stepped up and produced a superb curling strike into the top corner to give the hosts a 1-0 lead at the break.
The second half saw Sundowns continue to control proceedings, especially after a lengthy VAR interruption, but they failed to extend their advantage despite several big opportunities. Brayan León missed two clear chances, including a one-on-one with goalkeeper Ahmed Reda Tagnaouti.
Kutlwano Letlhaku also came close in a similar situation, only to be denied by a brilliant save from the Moroccan goalkeeper, who remains one of the standout figures from Morocco’s 2022 FIFA World Cup squad.
Late in the game, Teboho Mokoena struck the woodwork with a powerful effort, as Sundowns were left to reflect on missed chances that could have put the tie beyond reach.
AS FAR, who will rely on home support in Rabat next weekend, remain firmly in contention as they chase a second continental crown after their historic triumph in 1985.
The second leg will be officiated by Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, where Sundowns will attempt to secure their second CAF Champions League title after their 2016 triumph.
