Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAF Champions League campaign was left hanging in the balance after they were held to a 1–1 draw by Saint-Eloi Lupopo at the Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi on Sunday.
The result leaves Sundowns with no margin for error heading into their final Group C fixture and has intensified scrutiny on head coach Miguel Cardoso, following a run of inconsistent performances on the continent.
Lupopo struck first in the 19th minute when Enoch Molia finished clinically after being set up by Jean Tukumbane, capitalising on a hesitant Sundowns defence. The goal sparked belief among the home side, who carried momentum into the break as the South African champions struggled to impose themselves.
Sundowns responded after the interval and found an equaliser in the 55th minute through Jayden Adams, who calmly converted after a well-worked move involving Aubrey Modiba. The goal briefly shifted the balance of the contest, but Downs were unable to build on it despite enjoying more of the ball in the closing stages.
The draw extends a worrying run for Masandawana, who have now dropped points in three consecutive Champions League matches, following a defeat and a draw against Al Hilal. With one match remaining, Sundowns sit third in the group on six points, behind leaders Al Hilal (eight) and MC Alger (seven), while Lupopo remain bottom on five points.
As things stand, Sundowns must secure a straight win against MC Alger in their final group match to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive. Any other result would see the 2024/25 finalists eliminated at the group stage, a scenario that would be viewed as a major setback given the squad’s quality and continental pedigree.
Unsurprisingly, the result has triggered strong reactions from supporters, with opinions sharply divided over Cardoso’s impact. While some fans believe the coach deserves time and backing, others feel Sundowns’ Champions League struggles reflect deeper tactical and consistency issues that could yet derail their season.
With qualification now out of their hands, Sundowns return to Pretoria under pressure, knowing that only victory in their final group encounter will be enough to salvage their CAF Champions League campaign.