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IOL News
20-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Mamelodi Sundowns set sights on second star in CAF final showdown against Pyramids FC
VICTORY Abadlali beMamelodi Sundowns bebhiyozela indebe yeBetway Premiership emva kokubetha iMagesi FC kubusuku becawe egqithileyo. Image: Alche Greef/BackpagePix 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. Video Player is loading. 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Next Stay Close ✕ 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 of Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix 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 for Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Backpagpix Image: Backpagepix 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 of Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix 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 of Mamelodi Sundowns. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix 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.
IOL News
19-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Mamelodi Sundowns crowned champions in style against Magesi, as coach Miguel Cardoso sings praises
VICTORY Mamelodi Sundowns completed their eighth consecutive league title-winning season with a dominant 2-0 victory over Magesi on Sunday, as coach Miguel Cardoso lauded the team's ambition and unity. Picture: Alche Greef/BackpagePix Mamelodi Sundowns completed their title-winning campaign with a 2-0 win over Magesi, in a rousing coronation to end their Betway Premiership season at Loftus Versfeld, in Pretoria, on Sunday evening. Lucas Ribeiro notched up a brace inside the first 25 minutes, and that would be enough for Sundowns to bring down the curtain in fine style of their eighth league title-winning season in a row. Sundowns were in complete control against the visitors, with 12 shots at goal to the single attempt of Magesi. Sundowns also enjoyed the lion's share of possession with 82% of the ball. For Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso, it was the final exclamation point on another dominant season.
IOL News
01-05-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
Orlando Pirates, José Riveiro struggle to understand shock loss to Sekhukhune United
TOUGH LOSS Orlando Pirates' shock 1-0 defeat to Sekhukhune United leaves José Riveiro searching for answers as their Premiership title hopes dim amidst missed chances and growing pressure ahead of the Soweto Derby. Picture: Alche Greef/BackpagePix Following his side's shock 1-0 Betway Premiership defeat to Sekhukhune United at Orlando Stadium on Wednesday evening, Orlando Pirates coach José Riveiro was left trying to understand how his side lost a match at perhaps the most crucial time in their title challenge. While Mamelodi Sundowns eased to a 3-0 win over Richards Bay at the same time, it meant that Pirates are now 12 points behind the table-toppers. Even though Pirates still have two games in hand over Sundowns, who have played 23 matches, it means the gap is once again ballooning. That's before Pirates enter the cauldron of the Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium against Kaizer Chiefs, when the pressure will be even greater for the Buccaneers to bag all three points.
