Mamelodi Sundowns have been crowned CAF Champions League winners for the second time in their history after holding AS FAR Rabat to a tense 1-1 draw in the second leg of the final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Morocco.The result saw the South African side clinch a 2-1 aggregate victory, having secured a narrow advantage in the first leg in Pretoria.The win marks a major milestone for the Brazilians, who last lifted the continental trophy in 2016 under former coach Pitso Mosimane.It also ends a long wait for South African football, as Sundowns reclaim their place at the summit of African club football.

The match in Rabat was played in a highly charged atmosphere, with the Moroccan hosts applying early pressure and dominating large spells of the first half.AS FAR were awarded a penalty in the 35th minute after Divine Lunga was penalised following a VAR review for a foul on Reda Slim.Mohamed Hrimat converted from the spot, sending goalkeeper Ronwen Williams the wrong way to level the tie on aggregate and energise the home crowd.However, Sundowns responded in style just before half-time.

Midfielder Teboho Mokoena produced a spectacular half-volley from the edge of the box that struck the crossbar before going in, restoring their aggregate lead and shifting momentum back in favour of the visitors.

In the second half, Sundowns showed composure and tactical discipline under pressure, managing the tempo effectively while defending resolutely against AS FAR’s attempts to force extra time.Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams later redeemed himself with a crucial penalty save in the second half, helping to preserve Sundowns’ advantage.Under coach Miguel Cardoso, the team demonstrated resilience and game management to see out the result and secure their second continental crown.