Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns have been kept separate in the 2025 CAF Champions League quarterfinals, but they could still meet in the final.
As reported by The South African, Pirates were drawn against MC Alger from Algeria, while Sundowns will face off against Esperance. However, for the two South African giants to meet in this season’s competition, they must first overcome some tough opposition.
The quarterfinal first legs are set to take place on April 1-2, with the return legs scheduled for the following week.
How Pirates and Sundowns Could Meet in the CAFCL Final
Here’s how the CAF Champions League quarterfinal draw went down in Doha, Qatar:
- Q1: Al Ahly vs Al Hilal
- Q2: Pyramids vs AS FAR Rabat
- Q3: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Esperance
- Q4: MC Alger vs Orlando Pirates
During the same draw, CAF also conducted the semifinal pairings, which are as follows:
- The winner of Q3 (Sundowns or Esperance) will face the winner of Q1 (Al Ahly or Al Hilal).
- The winner of Q4 (Pirates or MC Alger) will meet the winner of Q2 (Pyramids or AS FAR Rabat).
So, if Sundowns manage to get past Esperance, they could face either Al Ahly or Al Hilal in the semifinals. On the other hand, Pirates could go up against Pyramids or AS FAR Rabat if they defeat MC Alger.
From there, if both teams progress, they could face each other in an epic CAF Champions League final, which would be a historic encounter for South African football.
