Aubrey Modiba’s stunning first-half strike handed Mamelodi Sundowns a crucial advantage as they edged AS FAR Rabat 1-0 in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
Following the completion of their Betway Premiership campaign against TS Galaxy on Tuesday, Sundowns shifted their full focus to continental glory as they pursued a second CAF Champions League crown since their historic triumph in 2016.
The Brazilians dominated possession from the opening stages and looked dangerous early on, although the visitors also threatened to stun the hosts and the packed Loftus crowd on several occasions.
The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 37th minute through Aubrey Modiba, who curled a sensational free-kick around the wall and beyond goalkeeper Ahmed Tagnaouti into the back of the net.
The second half was briefly delayed due to technical issues with the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system, forcing the match to continue without VAR — much to the frustration of the Moroccan side.
Masandawana nearly doubled their advantage shortly after the restart when Tasheeq Matthews slipped a superb through-ball into the path of Brayan Leon, but the usually clinical striker failed to beat Tagnaouti in a one-on-one situation.
Matthews remained influential throughout the encounter and later created another opening for Kutlwano Letlhaku, whose effort from a tight angle was brilliantly saved by the AS FAR shot-stopper.
AS FAR Rabat improved as the match progressed but struggled to break down a disciplined Sundowns defence, with the hosts remaining composed under pressure.
The reigning South African champions almost added a second goal in the dying moments when Teboho Mokoena rattled the upright with a powerful long-range free-kick.
Despite the missed opportunities, Sundowns held firm to secure an important first-leg victory ahead of the decisive second leg in Rabat next weekend.
Written by: Sandile Ndumo
