Motsepe Aims For FIFA Club World Cup As African Champions
Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Tlhope Motsepe has expressed his strong desire for the club to participate in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup as the reigning champions of Africa.
Sundowns are set to compete in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States of America next month, having already secured their eighth consecutive Betway Premiership title.
Before heading to America, they are aiming to conquer the continent, with the second leg of the CAF Champions League final delicately poised against Pyramids FC at the 30 June Stadium this Sunday [19:00].
The two sides played to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the Champions League final at Loftus Stadium last weekend.
“That’s what we want, to go there as African champions,” said Motsepe, referring to the FIFA Club World Cup tournament, which will run from 14 June to 13 July.
“We have a big chance. Being African champions again is something we’ve longed for. We are one step away from achieving it.”
He continued: “If we were to rewind to the start of the season and you asked if we would love to be in this position — one game away from the CAF Champions League title — we would take it. It’s what we plan for every season.”
This marks the first time in nine years that Mamelodi Sundowns have reached the continental final, since their victory under Pitso Mosimane in 2016. Under coach Rulani Mokwena, they had suffered semi-final exits in the past two seasons, with the 2023 defeat to Wydad Casablanca being particularly painful after an own goal by Mothibi Mvala in the dying minutes shattered their hopes following the final whistle.
Given that Mamelodi Sundowns conceded an away goal in the first leg, they will need to attack aggressively to swing the tie in their favor.
A scoreless draw in Egypt would see Pyramids FC claim the Champions League title. However, a scoring draw of 2-2 or higher would see Sundowns win their second CAF Champions League trophy, making them the first club in Mzansi to achieve this feat.
