Sundowns Grab Vital 1-1 Draw Against Lupopo in CAF Champions League
Sundowns grab vital 1-1 draw against Lupopo in CAF Champions League on Sunday 08 February 2026 as Mamelodi Sundowns battled back from a goal down to secure a crucial point in Group C. The match, played at the TP Mazembe Stadium, was intense, with both teams creating opportunities but unable to find a winning goal.
The result ensures Sundowns remain in contention for the knockout stages, maintaining their Sundowns knockout hopes in the tournament while highlighting the competitive nature of the CAF Champions League Group C.
Sundowns 1-1 Draw Lupopo – Match Overview
Mamelodi Sundowns entered the match knowing that a loss could severely damage their prospects of advancing in the CAF Champions League Group C. FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo capitalized on an early counterattack in the 19th minute, with Lihozasia finishing clinically to put the hosts ahead.
Despite the early setback, Sundowns responded positively. High pressing and disciplined defending allowed them to regain control of the match. In the 55th minute, Adams equaliser came from a powerful header off a corner, giving Sundowns the much-needed point.
The TP Mazembe Stadium match conditions added to the challenge, with high humidity and a fervent crowd making it difficult for both sides to maintain rhythm. Sundowns’ resilience, however, ensured they left the field with a vital draw.
Key Moments and Tactical Highlights
The game saw several crucial moments that could have altered the outcome:
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19th Minute – Lupopo Goal: Lihozasia’s counterattack caught Sundowns off guard, giving Lupopo an early lead.
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55th Minute – Adams Equaliser: Adams headed home from a well-delivered corner, marking the turning point of the match.
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Late Missed Opportunities: Sundowns had chances in the second half to take the lead, but Lupopo’s defense and goalkeeper kept them at bay.
Sundowns’ coach praised the team’s discipline and determination after the match, highlighting the importance of the point for the CAF Champions League Group C standings.
CAF Champions League Group C Standings
After this Sundowns 1-1 draw Lupopo, the Group C table looks as follows:
| Pos | Team | PTS | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Last 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AL Hilal (SDN) | 8 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 8 | 7 | 1 | — |
| 2 | MC Alger | 7 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 4 | 1 | — |
| 3 | Mamelodi Sundowns | 6 | 5 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 7 | 6 | 1 | — |
| 4 | FC Saint Eloi Lupopo | 5 | 5 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 4 | 7 | -3 | — |
The draw keeps Sundowns in third place with six points, just one behind MC Alger and two behind AL Hilal, showing that every remaining game will be critical to Sundowns knockout hopes.
Implications for Sundowns Knockout Hopes
The point secured against Lupopo ensures Sundowns remain in contention for a top-two finish in Group C. However, the team must improve their finishing and defensive coordination to solidify their position.
Coach and players emphasized that the upcoming home match against MC Alger will be decisive. Winning at home could propel Sundowns into a strong position to secure one of the two automatic spots for the quarter-finals.
The CAF Champions League Group C is competitive, and Sundowns must balance attacking creativity with defensive solidity to advance.
Player Performances and Standout Contributions
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Adams: Scored the equaliser and played a vital role in both offensive and defensive phases.
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Midfielders: Controlled possession effectively, limiting Lupopo’s counterattacks after the first goal.
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Goalkeeper: Made several critical saves to maintain the draw.
The match demonstrated Sundowns’ resilience and ability to respond under pressure, key traits required for progressing deep into the CAF Champions League.
Match Conditions and Stadium Atmosphere
The TP Mazembe Stadium match conditions were challenging, with high humidity and a vocal home crowd for Lupopo. These factors contributed to the tension and pace of the game. Sundowns’ ability to adapt to the environment showcased their experience and mental toughness.
Fans witnessed a tactical battle, where Sundowns had to be cautious but also aggressive in seeking the equaliser. The eventual Adams equaliser was a testament to Sundowns’ persistence.
Looking Ahead – Sundowns’ Path to the Quarter-Finals
With the Sundowns 1-1 draw Lupopo, the focus shifts to the remaining matches in Group C. Sundowns will need consistent performances in both home and away fixtures to secure a top-two finish.
Key upcoming challenges include:
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Home Game vs MC Alger: A must-win to regain momentum.
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Remaining Matches: Strong goal-scoring performances and tactical discipline will be crucial.
Maintaining fitness, focus, and strategy will be essential to turn Sundowns knockout hopes into reality in the 2025–26 CAF Champions League season.
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Conclusion
Sundowns grab vital 1-1 draw against Lupopo in CAF Champions League, keeping alive their chances to advance from Group C. Adams’ equaliser, combined with disciplined defending and strategic gameplay, ensured that Sundowns remain competitive in the group.
The result emphasizes the importance of every point in the CAF Champions League Group C and sets up an exciting run-in as Sundowns aim to secure a spot in the quarter-finals. Fans will be eagerly watching their performance against MC Alger, as the next steps could determine whether Sundowns’ 2025–26 continental campaign continues or ends prematurely.
Mainstream Media References
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CAF Champions League – Lupopo dent Sundowns’ hopes with hard-fought Group C draw
https://www.cafonline.com/caf-champions-league/news/lupopo-dent-sundowns-hopes-with-hard-fought-group-c-draw/ -
Adams header hands Sundowns draw in DRC to keep CAF Champions hopes alive | News24
https://www.news24.com/sport/soccer/psl/live-caf-champions-league-eloi-lupopo-v-mamelodi-sundowns-20260208-0270
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