Mamelodi Sundowns Drawn in Group C of CAF Champions League
Mamelodi Sundowns will face Al Hilal of Sudan, MC Alger of Algeria, and St Eloi Lupopo from the Democratic Republic of Congo in the group stage of the 2025 CAF Champions League. The Tshwane giants reached this stage for the 11th consecutive season, cementing their status as South Africa’s sole representative after Orlando Pirates were eliminated by Lupopo.
Sundowns advanced with authority, defeating Nigerian side Remo Stars 7-1 on aggregate in the preliminary rounds. Their impressive performance sets the tone for a challenging group phase, where they will aim to improve on last season’s campaign. Former Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena, now at MC Alger, will return to South Africa to face his former team, adding an intriguing subplot to the fixtures.
The Champions League draw took place on Monday in Randburg, Johannesburg, with African football legends Christopher Katongo and Alex Song in attendance. Sundowns will look to build on their experience from last season, where they faced Raja Casablanca, AS FAR, and Maniema Union in the group stage. Despite a slow start under Manqoba Mngqithi, the team secured a quarterfinal spot after Miguel Cardoso took over coaching duties.
Last season, Sundowns progressed all the way to the final but were narrowly defeated by Egyptian side Pyramids FC. This year, the team is determined to go further and claims their first continental title under the current coaching setup. Their matches against Al Hilal, MC Alger, and Lupopo will be crucial in setting the tone for a successful campaign.
CAF Champions League 2025 Group C
Mamelodi Sundowns
Al Hilal (Sudan)
MC Alger (Algeria)
St Eloi Lupopo (DRC)
With the group stage confirmed, Sundowns fans can anticipate high-stakes encounters and key showdowns, particularly against Mokwena’s Alger side. The Tshwane giants will aim to leverage their experience and squad depth to secure a place in the knockout rounds.
