After reclaiming the top spot in the Betway Premiership, Mamelodi Sundowns are shifting their focus back to the ultimate prize: the CAF Champions League. Today’s night, the Brazilians host Sudanese giants Al-Hilal at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, with kickoff set for 20:00.
Following a rotated squad selection in their recent 2-0 win over Orbit College—where head coach Miguel Cardoso rested key stars post-AFCON—the “Kabo Yellow” faithful can expect the heavy hitters to return. With memories of last season’s heartbreaking final defeat to Pyramids FC still fresh, Sundowns are determined to secure three points and maintain their momentum in Group C.
The Predicted Starting XI
Coach Cardoso is expected to revert to his most experienced “Gala XI” to handle the pressure of continental football:
| Position | Player |
| Goalkeeper | Ronwen Williams |
| Defense | Khuliso Mudau, Keanu Cupido, Grant Kekana, Aubrey Modiba |
| Midfield | Teboho Mokoena, Marcelo Allende, Nuno Santos |
| Attack | Tashreeq Matthews, Iqraam Rayners, Arthur Sales |
The Road to Glory
Sundowns currently sit in a strong position in the group stages following a 3-1 victory over Saint-Eloi Lupopo and a hard-fought goalless draw against Rulani Mokwena’s MC Alger. Having fallen just short in the 2025 final against Pyramids FC (3-2 on aggregate), the Pretoria-based side is on a mission to bring Africa’s biggest club trophy back to South Africa.
Facing an Al-Hilal side known for their resilience, the inclusion of veterans like Ronwen Williams and the clinical Iqraam Rayners will be vital for Cardoso’s tactical setup.
