AS FAR Rabat 1–1 Mamelodi Sundowns – CAF Champions League, 25 May 2026

A hard‑fought encounter at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium saw Moroccan giants AS FAR Rabat hold South African powerhouse Mamelodi Sundowns to a 1–1 draw in the first leg of their CAF Champions League quarter‑final. The result leaves the tie perfectly balanced heading into the return leg in Pretoria.

Match Overview

Both sides started cautiously, aware of the importance of avoiding an early away goal for the opposition. Sundowns enjoyed slightly more possession in the first half, but AS FAR looked dangerous on the counter. The opening goal came just before the break, when a sweeping move from the hosts ended with a composed finish from their striker.

Key Moments

• 43rd minute: AS FAR Rabat take the lead with a well‑worked team goal. A cross from the right was headed down into the path of the striker, who volleyed home from eight yards.
• 61st minute: Sundowns equalise through a long‑range strike that deflected past the AS FAR goalkeeper. The goal was initially credited as an own goal but later awarded to the Sundowns midfielder.
• 77th minute: AS FAR hit the crossbar from a free‑kick, the closest either side came to a winner.
• 90+3 minute: A late Sundowns corner causes panic in the box, but the AS FAR defence holds firm to preserve the draw.

Tactical Story

AS FAR Rabat set up in a compact 4‑4‑2, aiming to absorb pressure and hit Sundowns on the break. The plan worked perfectly for the first hour. However, after conceding, Sundowns pushed higher and used their technical superiority in midfield to dictate play. AS FAR’s full‑backs struggled to contain Sundowns’ overlapping wingers in the second half.

Standout Players

AS FAR’s goalkeeper made several crucial saves, particularly in the final 20 minutes. For Sundowns, their central midfielder was influential in both defence and attack, covering ground tirelessly and scoring the equaliser.

Season Impact

The 1–1 draw gives Sundowns a slight advantage with the away goal rule, but AS FAR Rabat will feel confident having held their own against one of Africa’s strongest clubs. The return leg in South Africa promises to be an intense affair, with a place in the semi‑finals at stake.