Mamelodi Sundowns have been warned to expect a difficult challenge in the CAF Champions League final after Guinea head coach Paulo Duarte praised the determination and momentum of AS FAR Rabat ahead of the decisive clash.
The two-legged final is scheduled to take place in May, with the exact date for the opening leg in South Africa still awaiting confirmation.
Sundowns return to the continental final for the second consecutive season following last year’s disappointment against Pyramids FC in the 2024/25 campaign.
AS FAR, meanwhile, are preparing for their first major African final since lifting the CAF Confederation Cup in 2005/06, adding further significance to the encounter for the Moroccan side.
Speaking to El Botola, Duarte insisted the final would be far more competitive than some may expect despite Sundowns’ experience at this level.
“Mamelodi Sundowns, with all their experience, will face AS FAR Rabat, who have had an exceptional run,” Duarte said.
The Portuguese coach highlighted the mentality within the Moroccan club as one of their greatest strengths heading into the final.
“This is the strength of the military team – they will approach this opportunity as if it were the last in their lives.”
Duarte also acknowledged the quality within the Sundowns squad but maintained that the South African champions would still face major difficulties over the two legs.
“It will not be easy for Sundowns, even with their experience and high-quality squad.”
The final will also feature an intriguing tactical contest between Portuguese coaches Miguel Cardoso and Alexandre Santos, adding another layer of interest to the showdown.
Sundowns are aiming to reclaim continental glory and erase the memory of last season’s final defeat, while AS FAR enter the tie carrying renewed confidence after an impressive run through the competition.
Duarte believes the Moroccan side are capable of making a strong statement on the African stage.
“But I believe AS FAR Rabat will have their say in this African competition,” he added.
