A weekend to mark Mamelodi Sundowns' triumph and Orlando Pirates' heartbreak

As next month’s CAF Champions League final approaches, Mamelodi Sundowns' supporters are not just optimistic — they are brimming with excitement. The prospect of lifting the prestigious trophy is tantalising, and the team has vowed to deliver a performance that will etch their name into the annals of African football history.

In Friday night’s semi-final second leg against the mighty Al Ahly, Sundowns proved that under the guidance of a passionate coaching staff and with an inspired squad, they have evolved into a force no one can overlook — one of our key footy takeaways from the weekend.

Third time’s a charm as Sundowns exorcise past traumas

In hostile Cairo, Sundowns booked their third Champions League final appearance while stopping Al Ahly from reaching a sixth successive final. By reaching the 2025 final, they finally banished the ghosts of previous near misses. In the past two seasons, they had fallen at the semi-final stage, haunted by the weight of expectation and past traumas.

This season, despite a fraught path filled with immense pressure, Sundowns showcased technical prowess and tactical ingenuity — a testament to their relentless spirit. Ahead of the final, one thing is clear: Sundowns are not just participating; they are ready to conquer and transform past heartaches into triumph.

Orlando Pirates bow out with gut-wrenching defeat to Pyramids FC

Following a dramatic loss to Pyramids FC, Orlando Pirates are left to ponder what might have been. They led twice but were pegged back on each occasion before a late Pyramids set-piece sealed their exit.

Coach Jose Riveiro, clearly heartbroken, summed it up simply: “A tough one to swallow, a tough one to digest.”

He identified their failure to protect leads in critical moments as the key factor behind their elimination and dashed hopes for continental glory.

Stellenbosch FC’s continental fairytale ends as Simba progresses

Stellenbosch, making their debut on the continental stage, captured hearts with their fearless run to the semi-finals. Their crowning moment came with a stunning 1-0 victory against African giants Zamalek in Cairo, after a goalless draw at home.

However, their journey came to a poignant close against Simba SC, a side well-versed in navigating high-pressure matches. Despite flashes of brilliance, Stellenbosch’s inexperience showed, ending what had been a historic debut campaign.

Beyond the scoreboard: Chiefs’ lack of mental strength worrying

As Kaizer Chiefs’ tough season continues, coach Nasreddine Nabi's brutally honest post-match assessment highlighted deeper issues.

“We lacked a little bit in leadership, a little bit of conviction in our offensive and defensive actions as well,” he admitted.

Chiefs’ long injury list and thin squad depth have exposed a fragility not just in physical resources but in mental resilience — an area of serious concern as the season draws to a close.

Eric Tinkler lets rip after Sekhukhune spoil CAF designs

Sekhukhune United coach Eric Tinkler did not hold back after his side's 1-1 draw against TS Galaxy — a match he had earmarked for maximum points.

“This should have been the easiest of our remaining five fixtures,” he fumed.

With crucial games against Orlando Pirates and Magesi FC ahead, Sekhukhune’s CAF qualification hopes now hang in the balance — and Tinkler knows there is no room left for slip-ups.