AFL: How much Brian Mandela’s Mamelodi Sundowns will receive by beating Wydad Casablanca

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STARS ABROAD AFL: How much Brian Mandela’s Mamelodi Sundowns will receive by beating Wydad Casablanca

Festus Chuma 14:07 - 06.11.2023

Mamelodi Sundowns chase AFL glory against Wydad Casablanca, seeking a second continental title in a high-stakes showdown.

Mamelodi Sundowns are on the brink of a monumental financial windfall as they gear up for the second leg of the African Football League (AFL) final against Wydad Casablanca.

After a narrow defeat in the first leg, the Sundowns have everything to play for with a staggering $4,000,000 (Ksh584,000,000) prize on the line for the victors.

The first leg saw Wydad Casablanca clinch a 2-1 victory, courtesy of an own goal from Rivaldo Coetzee and a moment of magic from Anas Serrhat's late strike.

This victory has provided the Moroccan titans with an edge as they head into the deciding match.

Despite the setback, Sundowns are optimistic, understanding that an early goal in the return fixture could completely change the dynamics of the tie.

Kenya international Brian Mandela, who watched from the bench during the first leg, could yet play a crucial part in his team's quest for glory.

Although he did not see action in Casablanca, his presence and potential impact in the decisive match cannot be underestimated.

Sundowns, affectionately known as Masandawana, are not only chasing the lucrative prize money but also the glory of adding a second continental title to their collection.

With the 2016 Champions League already in their trophy cabinet, the AFL trophy is now tantalizingly within reach.

The road to the final has not been easy for the Sundowns. They kicked off their campaign with a convincing win against Angola’s Petro de Luanda and demonstrated their resilience by earning a draw against Al Ahly in Cairo despite being a man down.

As Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena aptly put it, "It is written in the stars!" His proclamation after their victory against Ahly has become a rallying cry for the team, now circulating widely across social media.

Wydad Casablanca, still smarting from their loss in last season’s Champions League final, are equally determined.

Coach Adil Ramzi is hungry for redemption, and an AFL trophy would be the perfect salve for last season's wounds.

While the Sundowns stand to gain a handsome $4,000,000 (Ksh584,000,000) for a win, even if they fall at the final hurdle, the runner-up prize of $3,000,000 (Ksh438,000,000) is not a figure to be taken lightly.

As they prepare for the climax of what could be a historic season, the eyes of Africa and the world are upon them. Brian Mandela and company are 90 minutes away from etching their names in the annals of African football history. 

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