Mamelodi Sundowns delivered a resounding performance in the CAF Champions League, while Orlando Pirates faced a disappointing setback in their campaign on Sunday, October 19, 2025.
Mamelodi Sundowns, representing South Africa, showcased their dominance with a stunning 5-1 victory over Nigeria's Remo Stars in the first leg of the second preliminary round. The match, held at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta, Nigeria, saw Sundowns break a long-standing jinx for South African clubs on Nigerian soil. From the kickoff, Mamelodi Sundowns asserted their dominance, with Tashreeq Matthews opening the scoring in the 11th minute with a fantastic strike. Peter Shalulile doubled the lead in the 41st minute, calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner. Miguel Reisinho extended the advantage further in the 61st minute, followed by goals from Arthur Sales and Tsiki Ntsabeleng, completing the five-star performance. Remo Stars managed a consolation goal through Samson Olasupo in the 77th minute, but it did little to diminish Sundowns' commanding lead. Mamelodi Sundowns' goalkeeper and skipper, Ronwen Williams, also played an inspiring role in the team's success. Sundowns, who received a bye in the first round as one of Africa's top-ranked teams, are aiming to improve on their performance from last season, where they reached the semi-finals.
In stark contrast, Orlando Pirates suffered a significant setback, losing 3-0 to Saint Eloi Lupopo in the first leg of their second preliminary round tie. The match, played at Stade Kibassa Maliba, saw the home side take an early lead through Wanet Kashala in the 5th minute. Despite Pirates' efforts to equalize, Lupopo extended their lead in the 70th minute with a goal from Dramane Kambou and added another in the 89th minute through Jean. The defeat leaves Orlando Pirates in a precarious position, needing to score at least four unanswered goals in the second leg to progress to the group stages. The second leg, scheduled to take place at Orlando Stadium in Soweto, will be crucial for Pirates to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions League hopes alive.
The contrasting results highlight the unpredictable nature of the CAF Champions League and the challenges faced by teams competing for continental glory. Mamelodi Sundowns have positioned themselves strongly for the next round, while Orlando Pirates face an uphill battle to remain in the competition.
