Mamelodi Sundowns Handed First‑Round Bye in CAF Champions League: What It Means for South Africa’s Top Club

Why Sundowns Got the Bye

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) awards first‑round byes to clubs that rank high in its five‑year coefficient table. Mamelodi Sundowns, fresh off a domestic double and a semi‑final run in last year’s tournament, sit comfortably within that elite tier. Their consistent showings in the group stage and occasional deep‑run finishes have boosted their points, allowing CAF to skip them past the preliminary clash.

In practical terms, the bye means Sundowns will enter the competition at the second qualifying round, joining other heavyweight clubs such as Al Ahly, Wydad Casablanca and Egypt’s Zamalek. This not only reduces the number of matches they must play to reach the group stage, but also spares them a potentially costly trip to West or Central Africa in February.

Implications for the Club and South African Football

Skipping the first round gives Sundowns a scheduling advantage. With the South African Premier Division packed tightly, fewer mid‑week travel commitments mean the squad can focus more on domestic fixtures and maintain a fresher roster for the grueling group phase.

Financially, the club stands to save on travel, accommodation and logistics that a preliminary tie would have demanded. Those savings can be redirected toward player bonuses, scouting trips, or even strengthening the transfer budget ahead of the next season.

However, the bye also brings a different set of challenges. Opponents in the second round are often battle‑tested, having already faced a preliminary foe. Sundowns will need to hit the ground running, with limited competitive minutes before the group stage begins. Coach Rhulani Mokwena has already hinted at arranging high‑intensity friendlies to keep his players sharp.

• Preparation: A series of intra‑club scrimmages and matches against local rivals are planned to simulate tournament pressure.
• Travel: The reduced itinerary eases fatigue, especially for key foreign signings accustomed to European climates.
• Strategy: The coaching staff may experiment with tactical variations that would be riskier in a knockout setting.

Fans have taken to social media with mixed reactions. Some celebrate the perceived reward for Sundowns’ recent dominance, while critics argue that the bye undermines the spirit of a level playing field. Rival clubs, notably Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, have voiced concerns that the system favors historically strong teams, potentially widening the gap in South African club football.

Looking ahead, Sundowns aim to translate this administrative advantage into on‑field success. After falling short in the 2025 CAF Champions League final, where they lost to Egypt’s Pyramids, the club is desperate to reclaim the continental crown. The bye is a small piece of that puzzle, but the real test will come when they step onto the pitch in the second qualifying round.