Mamelodi Sundowns face questions after another continental setback in CAF Champions League

Mamelodi Sundowns’ dream crumbled beneath the ancient skies of Cairo, as they fell just short of reaching the CAF Champions League final — edged out 3-2 by first-time finalists, Pyramids FC, in a battle worthy of the pharaohs on Sunday.

Once again, Sundowns’ league brilliance faded beneath the continental lights, as their dream of conquering Africa’s premier crown slipped away. The wait stretches on — and when they return to the grand stage, it will mark close to a decade since that elusive triumph last felt within reach.

What began with the promise of Lucas Ribeiro Costa’s early strike slowly descended into shadows — and now, we reflect on the three defining moments that shaped the two-legged finale heartbreak for the Brazilians.

Moving on from Themba Zwane?

Mamelodi Sundowns’ captain did not feature in either leg of the tie, and with his experience and creativity — especially against a very stubborn Pyramids defence — his presence was clearly needed, but never materialised.

The 35-year-old had missed much of the season due to an Achilles injury, but after making his return more than a month before this semi-final, many expected his quality would see him earn minutes in both legs.

His absence in what were arguably the club’s two most important matches of the season might have gone unspoken, but it strongly suggests he may have slipped down the pecking order.

Where to for Miguel Cardoso?

The Portuguese coach has now lost back-to-back CAF Champions League semi-finals, the latest being a 1-0 aggregate defeat to Al Ahly last season while in charge of Espérance de Tunis. Hired by his current club with the primary aim of ending a nine-year continental title drought, Cardoso once again fell short with the trophy within reach.

It would be illogical to part ways with him immediately, especially with the FIFA Club World Cup just days away. However, with only the league title to show for the season — and a disappointing 2-1 loss to Kaizer Chiefs in the Nedbank Cup final — his future could hinge on what unfolds in the United States in the coming fortnight.

Expectations may be modest at the Club World Cup given the level of competition, but with the talent available in the squad, advancing from the group stage would be seen as a positive result — and perhaps crucial for Cardoso's job security.

A heavy price to pay

The Brazilians ultimately paid the price for not taking full control of the first leg at home. Their 1-1 draw, with the equaliser coming in added time, proved costly as Pyramids made the most of their home advantage and secured a place in continental history.

Heading into the second leg, the expectation was for the South African side to come out strong and take control of the game, especially since they needed at least one goal to stay in contention. However, for most of the match, that urgency was missing.

It wasn’t until Pyramids scored their second goal that Cardoso’s team began to show the intensity and intent that was needed from the start. By then, it was too late — and it became clear that their tactical approach across both legs had fallen short.