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Monday’s CAF Champions League group stage draw in Randburg delivered one of the most highly anticipated storylines of the season — a reunion between Mamelodi Sundowns and their former coach Rulani Mokwena. The South African giants were placed in Group C, alongside MC Alger (Algeria), St Eloi Lupopo (DR Congo), and Al Hilal (Sudan).
This draw sets the stage for an emotionally charged and tactically fascinating battle, as Mokwena — now at the helm of MC Alger — will face the club where he made his name as one of Africa’s most promising young coaches.
🔥 A Reunion Full of Emotion and Respect
Rulani Mokwena’s departure from Mamelodi Sundowns earlier this year sent shockwaves through South African football. Under his leadership, “The Brazilians” became a dominant force, known for their fluid attacking football and tactical brilliance. His move to MC Alger marked a new chapter, but his ties to Sundowns remain deep.
Fans are already buzzing about Mokwena’s return to South Africa, with many expressing mixed emotions — admiration for his achievements and curiosity about how his new side will fare against his former team.
⚽ Group C: A Tough Battle Ahead
Group C is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in this season’s CAF Champions League.
Mamelodi Sundowns (South Africa): The reigning African Football League champions and perennial contenders.
MC Alger (Algeria): A revived powerhouse under Mokwena, looking to make a strong continental statement.
St Eloi Lupopo (DR Congo): A team on the rise with passionate support and home advantage in Lubumbashi.
Al Hilal (Sudan): A seasoned side with plenty of CAF experience and a reputation for being difficult to beat at home.
🗣️ Fans React
Social media lit up shortly after the draw, with Sundowns supporters jokingly calling the matchup “The Rulani Derby.” Many expressed excitement at seeing how Mokwena’s tactical mind would line up against his old team — and how the Sundowns coaching staff would handle facing their former mentor.
🏆 What’s at Stake
For Sundowns, this group offers a chance to assert their continental dominance once again. For Mokwena, it’s a personal test — proving that his coaching philosophy can thrive outside the familiar yellow and blue of the Tshwane giants.
The first meeting between the two sides promises to be one of the must-watch fixtures of the group stage, filled with emotion, mutual respect, and the drama only African football can deliver.