Mamelodi Sundowns booked their spot in the quarter-finals of the CAF Champions League despite drawing 1-1 against AS FAR on Sunday evening.
CAF Champions League
Result: Mamelodi Sundowns 1-1 AS FAR Rabat
Date: 19 January 2025
Venue: Loftus Versfeld
Sundowns made two changes following their come-from-behind win over Maniema Union, as Peter Shalulile and Malibongwe Khoza were drafted back into the line-up.
The Brazilians had a nervy start after Thapelo Morena scuffed a clearance on the path of FAR Rabat players but Khoza saved him his blushes with a crucial block in the six-yard box.
Masandawana were clinical with their first chance on 12 minutes after Shalulile headed home a cross from a set-piece routine by Lucas Ribeiro Costa.
Miguel Cardoso's charges were able to settle into their passing game after that and ten minutes before the half-time break, Shalulile had another opportunity unmarked in the box with a low volley that was smothered by goalkeeper Ayoub El Khayati.
The Brazilians continued to ask questions of FAR Rabat towards the end of the first stanza but they were not getting behind their compact defence frequently and settled for a narrow lead going into the interval.
The Tshwane giants had more spaces behind the Moroccan side's defence early in the second stanza as Rayners nearly capitalized with a chipped effort that tipped away by El Khayati, who was way off his line.
However, chances were few and far between for Masandawana around the hour-mark, although Teboho Mokoena almost made it 2-0 with a bending free-kick that nearly sneaked in at the far post.
The Militarians, however, started to get into their rhythm in the closing stages and with seven minutes remaining, Amine Zouhzouh levelled matters with a first-time shot at the near post following a cross.
Sundowns were content with a draw in the dying minutes, as they were not interested in going forward, wasting time with back-passes and the game ended all square.
FAR Rabat finished top of Group B, one point ahead of The Brazilians.
Here's how they lined up:
Mamelodi Sundowns: Williams, Khoza, Kekana, Lunga, Mokoena, Allende, Mkhulise, Morena, Ribeiro, Rayners, Shalulile
Subs: Onyango, Lebusa, Sales, Maema, Mashego, Lethlaku, Matthews, Johannes, Maboe
