Mamelodi Sundowns secured their first African Football League title after a historic 2-0 victory over Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca. The second-leg final took place at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, with goals from Peter Shalulile and Aubrey Modiba, resulting in a 3-2 aggregate scoreline, marking their first African trophy since the CAF Super Cup six years ago.
Sundowns' victory against Wydad in a knockout tie is significant. It marks their first success in a tie, a testament to their resilience and ability to overcome past setbacks despite facing defeats in two CAF Champions League semifinals and one quarterfinal. Sundowns coach Rhulani Mokwena expressed gratitude to the Sundowns supporters for their support during the match against Wydad, stating that the match was not just about the championship but also a chance for redemption and rewriting history.
Mokwena was thankful for the support from the Sundowns' yellow nation and the emotional shift from heartbreak to joy during the match. Namibia's captain, Shalulile, scored the opening goal in the dying minutes of the first half, breaking the deadlock three minutes into added time. The goal ignited the spirits of the 50 000-strong crowd, which included FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe, and gave Sundowns the lead.
The FIFA and CAF delegations led by Infantino and Motsepe, respectively, had also attended the electrifying derby between rivals Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates at FNB Stadium on Saturday. Meanwhile, Sundowns secured the match's outcome with a second goal in the second half, scored by Modiba after a mistaken pass from Wydad was intercepted, edging out two Moroccans and lifting the ball over goalkeeper El Motie.
Despite injuries, physical challenges, and Wydad's time-wasting tactics, Sundowns demonstrated determination and strategic prowess in a match. Wydad needed to score to force extra time, and their captain Ayoub el Amloud almost scored a powerful header off a corner, but Sundowns' goalkeeper Ronwen Williams saved the ball.
Sundowns, who were involved in the formidable eight-club competition, successfully defeated Petro Luanda of Angola and Egyptian giants, Al Ahly, showcasing their mettle against formidable opponents. Sundowns' victory is a significant achievement for the African Football League, which faced sponsorship challenges.
CAF plans to expand the league to from eight to 24 clubs for the 2024-2025 season, indicating a promising future for African club football. Sundowns' victory in the inaugural African Football League final marked a significant turning point in their history, as they became deserving champions.
The triumph against Wydad will be remembered as a tale of redemption and a celebration of the enduring spirit of the game, bringing them a deserved place in continental football history.
