Mamelodi Sundowns have been crowned champions of the 2026 African Football League, defeating Esperance Sportive de Tunis 3-1 on aggregate in the two-legged final. The South African club secured a 2-0 victory in the first leg at home on May 18, 2026, followed by a 1-1 draw in the return leg in Tunis on May 25, 2026.
The victory marks Sundowns' first African Football League title, adding to their five CAF Champions League titles. The team, coached by Manqoba Mngqithi, dominated the tournament with a strong defensive record and clinical finishing.
Esperance, the Tunisian giants and four-time CAF Champions League winners, fought hard but could not overcome the deficit. The final match in Tunis saw Esperance take an early lead through a goal by Yan Sasse in the 12th minute, but Sundowns equalized via a penalty from Peter Shalulile in the 68th minute.
The African Football League, launched in 2023, features top clubs from across the continent. Sundowns' victory earns them a spot in the 2026 FIFA Club World Cup.
