Sundowns Fight Back but Fall Short

Despite the setback, Mamelodi Sundowns showed character and refused to give up. In the 75th minute, Iqraam Rayners pulled one back with a composed finish from close range, setting up a tense finale.

Miguel Cardoso's squad pushed forward relentlessly in the final stretch. Both Peter Shalulile and Lebo Mothiba came close to leveling the score, but the Egyptian defense held firm, thanks largely to a stellar performance from goalkeeper Ahmed El Shenawy.

This victory marks a milestone for Pyramids FC, who lifted their first major continental title just ten years after the club was founded. It also ensures Egypt continues its reign over African football, following back-to-back titles for Al Ahly in 2023 and 2024.

For Sundowns, it was a night of heartbreak. Aiming for their second title and trying to become the first team since Al Ahly in 2012 to win the final after failing to win the home leg, the South African side came up short—suffering their second loss in a CAF final, 24 years after their 2001 defeat.