Mamelodi Sundowns have placed themselves in a strong position to win the CAF Champions League after securing a 1-0 victory over AS FAR in the first leg of the final played today in Pretoria, South Africa.
In a highly competitive encounter, Sundowns showed their quality from the opening minutes by dominating possession and creating several scoring opportunities in front of a packed Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
The only goal of the match was scored by defender Aubrey Modiba in the 37th minute through a well-taken free kick that beat the AS FAR goalkeeper and sparked huge celebrations among the home supporters.
The second half saw AS FAR increase the intensity of their attacks as they searched for an equalizer, but Sundowns’ defense, led by Grant Kekana, remained solid until the final whistle.
Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso praised his players for their discipline and fighting spirit, while insisting that the job is not yet finished ahead of the return leg in Morocco.
“We achieved an important result at home, but there are still another difficult 90 minutes ahead of us. We must remain focused,” said Cardoso after the match.
Despite the defeat, AS FAR still believe they can turn things around when they play at home in front of their supporters in the second leg.
Sundowns now need only a draw of any kind in the return leg to win their second CAF Champions League title since their triumph in 2016.
Meanwhile, AS FAR will require a two-goal victory to claim the continental title for the first time in the modern format of the competition.
