Mamelodi Sundowns Name Starting XI for CAF Champions League First Leg Against AS FAR
Coach Miguel Cardoso has confirmed the lineup that will face Moroccan side AS FAR in the opening leg of the CAF Champions League final at Loftus Versfeld on 22 November 2024. The selection marks the return of defender Keanu Cupido after a shoulder injury sustained in the Betway Premiership draw against Kaizer Chiefs on 2 November 2024.
Defensive Solidity Restored
Cupido’s absence had been a major concern for Sundowns, who conceded seven goals across their last two league matches – a stark departure from their usual defensive record. His partnership with Khulumani Ndamane in central defence is expected to shore up the backline, especially alongside the returning full‑backs Khuliso Mudau (serving a home suspension) and Aubrey Modiba.
According to the club’s official match report, Sundowns kept a clean sheet in three of their last five CAF Champions League outings when Cupido started, underscoring his impact on defensive organization (Mamelodi Sundowns, 2024).
- Ronwen Williams – Goalkeeper
- Khuliso Mudau – Right‑back
- Khulumani Ndamane – Centre‑back
- Keanu Cupido – Centre‑back
- Aubrey Modiba – Left‑back
Midfield Blend of Youth and Experience
Cardoso has handed a starting role to the 20‑year‑old midfielder Kutlwano Letlhaku, who will operate alongside Jayden Adams, Nuno Santos and Teboho Mokoena. The youngster’s inclusion reflects Sundowns’ strategy of integrating academy talent into high‑stakes fixtures.
Veteran presence is provided on the bench by Themba Zwane and Chilean international Marcelo Allende, both capable of influencing the game from the substitutes’ bench.
- Jayden Adams – Central midfield
- Teboho Mokoena – Central midfield
- Kutlwano Letlhaku – Central midfield
- Nuno Santos – Central midfield
Attacking Options
Up front, Cardoso will rely on the pace of Tashreeq Matthews and the goal‑scoring threat of Colombian striker Brayan León, who has netted eight times in the current CAF Champions League campaign. The bench offers additional firepower with Arthur Sales, Lebo Mothiba and Monnapule Saleng ready to be introduced.
- Tashreeq Matthews – Right wing
- Brayan León – Striker
Bench Strength
The substitutes list includes:
- Kegan Johannes – Defender
- Zuko Mdunyelwa – Defender
- Divine Lunga – Defender
- Themba Zwane – Midfielder
- Marcelo Allende – Midfielder
- Arthur Sales – Forward
- Lebo Mothiba – Forward
- Monnapule Saleng – Forward
Looking Ahead to the Second Leg
Sundowns will host the first leg at Loftus Versfeld before travelling to Rabat for the return match on 29 November 2024. A favorable result in Pretoria would give the Brazilians a significant advantage as they pursue their first CAF Champions League title since 2016.
With Cupido back in the fold, a balanced midfield and a potent attacking duo, Mamelodi Sundowns appear well‑equipped to meet the challenge posed by AS FAR. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether the defensive improvements translate into a clean sheet and a decisive away‑goal advantage.
