Mamelodi Sundowns in the CAF Champions League - History & Achievements

John Eastwood

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Last updated: 25 May 2025

John Eastwood 25 May 2025

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Mamelodi Sundowns won their first and only CAF Champions League in 2016.
They’ve consistently reached later stages since, including multiple semi-finals and finals.
Sundowns aim for a second title in 2025, facing Pyramids FC in the final.

Sundowns are up against Pyramids FC in the 2025 CAF Champions League final (Getty Images).

Introduction

Mamelodi Sundowns, one of South Africa's premier football clubs, have established themselves as formidable contenders for the CAF Champions League on an annual basis.
Introduction
Near Misses Since 2016 Success
Second Title in 2025?
Sundowns' Full Historical Record

Their journey in the tournament has been marked by significant achievements and consistent performances, but many disappointments.

The pinnacle of their success came in 2016 when they clinched the CAF Champions League title for the first and only time. Under the guidance of coach Pitso Mosimane, Sundowns defeated Egypt's Zamalek with a 3–0 victory in the first leg and a 1–0 loss in the second leg, securing a 3–1 aggregate score.

This triumph not only marked their first continental title but also highlighted the club's growing stature in African football under the ownership of Patrice Motsepe.

Near Misses Since 2016 Success

In subsequent years, Sundowns have consistently advanced to the later stages of the competition. They reached the quarter-finals in 2019 and 2020 but ultimately fell short. Their performances have been characterised by a blend of experienced players and emerging talents, with a focus on recruiting players from South America in recent years.

The club's participation in the CAF Champions League has significantly contributed to their reputation and development. It has provided valuable exposure to international competition, fostering growth and attracting top-tier talent. Moreover, their consistent performances have elevated the profile of South African football on the continental stage.

Second Title in 2025?

Looking ahead, Mamelodi Sundowns are in the 2025 CAF Champions League final vs Pyramids FC. They are chasing that elusive "second star".

In addition, Sundowns will play in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup thanks to their achievements in the CAF Champions League in recent years.

Sundowns' Full Historical Record

Year	Stage Reached	Details
1994	Second Round	First appearance in the African Cup of Champions Clubs
1999	Second Round	Early exit after rejoining the competition
2000	Group Stage	Finished second in Group A; did not advance
2001	Finalist	Lost 4–1 on aggregate to Al Ahly
2006	First Round	Eliminated early
2007	Second Round	Did not reach group stage
2008	Second Round	Another early exit
2015	First Round	Failed to progress
2016	Champions	Defeated Zamalek 3–1 on aggregate in the final
2017	Quarter-finals	Eliminated by Wydad Casablanca on penalties
2018	Group Stage	Finished third in Group C; did not advance to KO rounds
2019	Semi-finals	Lost to Wydad Casablanca 2–1 on aggregate
2020	Quarter-finals	Knocked out by Al Ahly 3–1 on aggregate
2021	Quarter-finals	Again eliminated by Al Ahly 3–1 on aggregate
2022	Quarter-finals	Lost to Petro de Luanda 3–2 on aggregate
2023	Semi-finals	Eliminated by Wydad Casablanca on away goals
2024	Semi-finals	Lost 2-0 on aggregate to ES Tunis
2025	Finalist	Drew 1-1 vs Pyramids in 1st leg; 2nd leg on 31 May 2025