Mamelodi Sundowns triumph in inaugural African Football League

Mamelodi Sundowns secured a historic victory on Sunday as they emerged champions of the inaugural African Football League, defeating Wydad Casablanca of Morocco 2-0 in Pretoria.

PRETORIA Mamelodi Sundowns secured a historic victory on Sunday as they emerged champions of the inaugural African Football League, defeating Wydad Casablanca of Morocco 2-0 in Pretoria.

Sundowns clinched the two-leg final with a 3-2 aggregate score, marking their first African trophy since claiming the CAF Super Cup six years ago.

Namibian captain Peter Shalulile, who was recalled after missing the previous five matches, broke the deadlock just before halftime.

Reacting swiftly to a parried shot from Teboho Mokoena, Shalulile found the back of the net, giving the home team a crucial lead.

Aubrey Modiba extended Sundowns’ lead eight minutes into the second half with a skillful interception and finish, securing the victory that delighted the 50,000-capacity crowd, including FIFA President Gianni Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe.

The win marked Sundowns’ first success against Wydad in a knockout tie, overcoming previous losses in the CAF Champions League.

Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrate victory in the inaugural African Football League on 12 November 2023. Sundowns beat Wydad Casablanca of Morocco 2-0 in Pretoria to claim the title.
FILE: Mamelodi Sundowns players celebrate victory in the inaugural African Football League on 12 November 2023. Sundowns beat Wydad Casablanca of Morocco 2-0 in Pretoria to claim the title. [Picture: @Masandawana/X]

The triumph was particularly sweet for Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena, who expressed his gratitude to the team and the supporters.

“I am so lucky to be in charge of this magnificent group of players. My thanks to the yellow nation (Sundowns supporters) for their wonderful support from the first minute to the last,” said Mokwena.

“It is difficult to talk now. This is a very emotional time for me. There has been so much heartbreak after some previous matches against Wydad. Now there is joy.”

The victory earned Sundowns a significant prize of four million dollars, equivalent to winning the South African league five times.

The success adds another accolade to the club’s rich history and showcases their prowess in African football.

The African Football League, featuring eight clubs, faced challenges in securing sponsorship, but the organizers, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), aim to expand the league to 24 clubs for the 2024-2025 season.

RosGwen24 News
RosGwen24 News
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