CAF Champions League Final Shock: Mamelodi Sundowns Suffer Late Setback at Loftus

Mamelodi Sundowns were left devastated after conceding with just 36 seconds left on the clock to draw 1-1 with Pyramids FC in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final at Loftus Versfeld. Despite a dominant display and a composed performance for much of the match, Walid El Karti’s last-gasp equalizer stole a vital away goal for the Egyptian side. The intense competition of the CAF Champions League showcases the best teams from Africa.

Mamelodi Sundowns in Control but Let It Slip

It was a well-balanced display from the Brazilians, who took a deserved lead in the 53rd minute through Lucas Ribeiro. The Brazilian forward showed great awareness and calmness in the box after a blocked shot fell kindly for him. Ribeiro took his time, sized up his target, and slotted past Ahmed Moawad to send Loftus into raptures.

However, as has happened in previous CAF Champions League campaigns, Sundowns were unable to manage the final moments. A cross from the left found Walid El Karti, who powered home a header in the 93rd minute to silence the home crowd. It was a scene all too familiar for Masandawana fans, reminiscent of past heartbreaks against North African opposition.

Loftus Versfeld Turns Silent

The sold-out stadium, buzzing with energy throughout the tie, fell into stunned silence after the late goal. Despite the large turnout, the fans struggled to lift the team in the closing stages. The frustration even boiled over when Arthur Sales was booed by some sections of the crowd, who called for his substitution.

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso, visibly dejected post-match, reflected on the fine margins that defined the encounter.

“We need not to fail on the decisive moments like we did today,” Cardoso said, his voice hoarse with emotion.

Cardoso: “Not All is Lost”

The Portuguese tactician acknowledged the costly mistake that led to the equalizer: “These games are decided on small details. That goal came from a moment when Thapelo [Morena] lost the ball going forward. It’s in those little moments that we must stay composed.”

Despite the setback, Cardoso remained defiant about his team’s chances heading into the second leg in Cairo, a pivotal moment in their CAF Champions League journey.

“It’s not the time to give up. It’s time to give the right energy in order to do well. If this was a one-off final and it ended 1-1, we’d still need to keep going.”

He added: “Let’s move forward and pick up the energy. Are we happy? No. But the biggest mistake would be to think we’re dead. Let’s move forward and go.”

Jurčić: “This Is the Character of Our Team”

On the opposite end, Pyramids FC head coach Krunoslav Jurčić beamed with pride following his team’s late heroics. The Croatian coach praised his squad’s never-say-die attitude, which has seen them net several late goals during the campaign.

“We showed many times this season we have excellent character to come back. Congratulations to my players,” said Jurčić. “We’ve scored in the last five minutes many times – 15 or 20 this season – so this is our identity. I try to transmit my energy to the players and they respond.”

Jurčić acknowledged Sundowns’ quality but insisted his side had opportunities to win: “Maybe we needed to score one or two more. But overall, I’m satisfied. This is only the first half.” Competing in the CAF Champions League tests every team’s resilience and determination.

All to Play for in Cairo

The return leg will take place at the 1 June Stadium in Egypt on Sunday evening, with kick-off set for 19:00. Mamelodi Sundowns, who will travel on Tuesday, will benefit from a free week of preparation, while Pyramids FC still have a league fixture before the decisive showdown.

For Sundowns, the mission is simple yet daunting: overcome a tough Pyramids side in their own backyard and avoid repeating past CAF Champions League disappointments. With a place in history on the line, the Brazilians will need every ounce of resilience, focus, and quality to bring the trophy back home.

Also read: Mamelodi Sundowns Eye Continental Glory: How They Can Tame Pyramids FC at Loftus