Mamelodi Sundowns’ quest to become the most successful South African side in continental football resumes this Saturday when they welcome Egyptian outfit Pyramids FC to Loftus Versfeld Stadium for the first leg of the CAF Champions League final (kick-off at 3pm).
The Brazilians are chasing their second Champions League crown — their last triumph came in 2016 under Pitso Mosimane. This marks their first appearance in the final since that historic victory nearly a decade ago.
In what promises to be a blockbuster clash against one of the tournament’s surprise packages, Obakeng Meletse highlights five key players who could take Sundowns a step closer to a dream result in Saturday’s opening leg.
Teboho Mokoena
The dead-ball specialist has not only been instrumental on set-pieces but has also brought invaluable experience to the squad during this continental campaign. Mokoena has been one of Sundowns’ standout performers, orchestrating play from deep and linking effectively with the attack. Having featured in all ten matches of this year’s tournament and providing a key assist, Mokoena was also a driving force in their recent domestic title triumph. His leadership and composure will be crucial across both legs as the Brazilians aim to etch their name in African football history once more.
Marcelo Allende
The ever-consistent Chilean attacking midfielder quietly anchors the midfield, providing structure and stability in key moments. Allende’s intelligence in possession, ability to dictate tempo, and knack for finding space could prove decisive — especially against a Pyramids FC side known for committing numbers forward. His role in breaking up play and launching attacks from deep positions will be vital in both managing the pace of the game and exploiting defensive gaps left by the visitors.
Grant Kekana
With the first leg at home, keeping a clean sheet is paramount — and Grant Kekana will play a central role in that objective. A seasoned defender, Kekana has featured in various centre-back pairings this season, most recently alongside Mosa Lebusa, who is expected to partner him again on Saturday. Sundowns have conceded just one goal in ten matches since the group stage, and much of that defensive solidity stems from Kekana’s leadership and organisation. His experience will be key in neutralising Pyramids’ threat and maintaining the club’s excellent defensive record.
Iqraam Rayners
Since his arrival from Stellenbosch FC, Rayners has made an immediate impact, notching 21 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions. Three of those goals have come in the Champions League, and with 14 goals in the latter part of the domestic campaign, the striker enters the final in red-hot form. His movement, clinical finishing, and ability to find space in the box could provide Sundowns with the edge they need in the final third.
Lucas Ribeiro Costa
The Brazilian playmaker has grown immensely this season, establishing himself as a central figure in the Sundowns attack. Equally adept at creating and finishing chances, Ribeiro Costa offers flair, unpredictability, and a proven goal threat. With two goals and one assist in the tournament, and the Betway Premiership Golden Boot already in hand, he is likely to be one of the most watched players on the pitch. His influence could be decisive if the Brazilians are to take a meaningful advantage to Cairo for the return leg.
