Mamelodi Sundowns has reached the CAF Champions League final for the second consecutive season. They will face AS FAR Rabat in the final matches scheduled for May 15 and May 24.
Sundowns are guaranteed $4 million as losing finalists. If they win the Champions League, they will receive $6 million. This represents a significant increase in prize money—CAF raised the winners’ amount by 50% from $4 million to $6 million.
The total prize money available for African clubs in CAF competitions now exceeds $42 million per season. This marks a substantial increase from previous years, reflecting a commitment to enhance financial rewards in African football.
In 2021, CAF allocated only $18.8 million in total cash for clubs in prize money. The latest increases take the overall prize money and solidarity payments to African clubs to over USD42 million (R687.7 million) per season, an increase of 123.4% since Dr Patrice Motsepe was elected CAF President.
Sundowns previously won the Champions League in 2016. They secured their place in this year’s final by defeating Espérance Sportive de Tunis with a 2-0 aggregate score.
FAR Rabat reached the final after overcoming RS Berkane in the semi-finals, edging them out with a 2-1 aggregate despite losing the return leg 1-0 last weekend. FAR Rabat has not won the competition since it was renamed the CAF Champions League.
Sundowns aim for their second title while competing in their fourth Champions League final overall. They previously pocketed $2 million when they finished second last season.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional financial incentives or changes that may arise before the final matches take place.
