Mamelodi Sundowns secured a vital 1-0 victory over AS FAR Rabat at Loftus Versfeld in the first leg of the 2026 CAF Champions League final.
The match’s deciding moment came in the 37th minute when Aubrey Modiba struck a sensational direct free-kick into the back of the net.
ماميلودي صنداونز يسجل الهدف الأول في شباك الجيش الملكي#دوري_أبطال_إفريقيا#CAFCL pic.twitter.com/6X23QeDw0S
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS) May 17, 2026
However, the second half began with high drama as referee Jean-Jacques Ndala announced a VAR technical failure. The Moroccan side initially refused to resume play without the technology, but after lengthy discussions, the match continued, and the VAR system was eventually restored minutes later.
Despite wasting several chances to double their lead, Sundowns take a slim advantage to Morocco. They now only need a draw to secure their second-ever Champions League title.
On the other hand, AS FAR will host the return leg at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium on Sunday, May 24. Due to the away goals rule, the Moroccan giants need a two-goal margin victory to claim their first African crown since the 1980s.
