Sundowns’ Big CAF Champions League Defeat May Have Exposed Their Key Weakness

After Mamelodi Sundowns fell short in their pursuit of a second CAF Champions League title, a glaring issue in their squad may have finally been revealed. The Tshwane giants lost 2-1 to Egypt’s Pyramids FC in the second leg of the final in Cairo, sealing a narrow 3-2 aggregate defeat in a campaign where they were heavily tipped for continental glory.

This loss will sting, especially after Sundowns had eliminated defending champions Al Ahly en route to the final and entered the clash with greater experience in navigating the tournament’s latter stages. Yet it was Pyramids FC who lifted their maiden Champions League trophy, leaving the Brazilians with more questions than answers.

While much of the pre-final focus was on Sundowns’ dominance and tactical prowess, the final exposed a critical shortfall: an inability to convert chances when it mattered most. Coach Miguel Cardoso has faced scrutiny for his selection choices in key moments. In particular, questions persist around why forward Lucas Ribeiro Costa failed to deliver in the inter-club competition despite his domestic scoring exploits.

Conversely, Pyramids benefited from the clinical form of striker Fiston Mayele. The Congolese forward was instrumental in the Egyptian side’s historic run, notching nine goals, including a crucial strike in the final and a semi-final brace against Orlando Pirates. By contrast, Sundowns’ top three forwards — Ribeiro Costa, Iqraam Rayners, and Peter Shalulile — combined for just 10 goals throughout the tournament. The inability to find the net consistently was ultimately costly.

The lack of firepower among Sundowns’ front line has reignited a wider debate about the development and deployment of strikers in South African football. Former Marumo Gallants coach Dylan Kerr believes this is a long-standing problem across the country’s top clubs.

“South African clubs don’t invest enough in strikers,” Kerr told KickOff.com. “Look at what Nasreddine Nabi always says at Kaizer Chiefs — they dominate games but miss chances. Sundowns play great football but they overplay and fail to capitalise. The same goes for Pirates.”

Kerr also criticised the lack of consistency in striker selection, which can undermine a forward’s confidence and form. “Strikers need consistency. They need to play regularly. Without confidence, it becomes harder for the team. PSL top scorer Ribeiro is on 16 goals — Shalulile isn’t even in double figures this season,” Kerr added.

Despite the disappointment, Sundowns remain an elite side on the continent. However, to truly establish themselves as consistent Champions League contenders, they may need to address this glaring issue up front. Their domestic dominance is undisputed, but continental success demands a cutting edge in front of goal — something Pyramids FC had in abundance during this campaign. As coach Cardoso and the Sundowns hierarchy plot their next steps, strengthening the strike force could be a priority. Failure to do so risks further heartbreak in Africa’s premier club competition.