Mamelodi Sundowns in the CAF Champions League - History & Achievements
- 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 |
Top Betting Sites
Betting offers
Upcoming Events
15 July 2025
- Durham vs Leicestershire -
- Cricket
16 July 2025
- South Africa vs New Zealand -
- Cricket
17 July 2025
- The Open Championship -
- Golf
Load More