Sundowns are aiming to win their first African crown since 2016, while AS FAR are seeking their first triumph since 1985. The winner of the two-legged tie will also secure a record 6 million US dollar prize.

The sides drew both of their group-stage meetings last season 1-1, underlining how evenly matched they are heading into the final.

Miguel Cardoso's side enter the final after a disappointing end to their Betway Premiership campaign - a 3-2 defeat to TS Galaxy - which has put Orlando Pirates in pole position for the title.

That slip-up would have left them demoralised but coach Cardoso has backed his troops to bounce back and show "proof of character".

"The boys are surely going to show another proof of character. We'll try to recover them as much as possible so that they can produce a good match in this Champions League final," said the Portuguese tactician.

"The season is not over. The season still has two more matches to be played. It's now time to get the energy as soon as possible for the weekend."

Sundowns also suffered a CAF Champions League final defeat to Pyramids FC last season, adding pressure to deliver this time.

The Brazilians are without suspended defender Grant Kekana, while Keanu Cupido is doubtful due to injury and Mothobi Mvala remains sidelined. The defensive reshuffle comes at a crucial stage of the season.

Despite those issues, Sundowns remain strong at home in continental competition, with just one defeat in their last five seasons at Loftus Versfeld in the Champions League.

Brayan Leon leads the attack after a strong continental campaign, while Ronwen Williams is expected to start despite recent criticism of his form.

AS FAR have built their run to the final on defensive organisation, conceding just five goals in 10 matches. Alexandre Santos' side eliminated Pyramids FC and RS Berkane in the knockout stages.

Captain Mohamed Rabie Hrimat anchors midfield, while goalkeeper Ahmed Reda Tagnaouti has been one of the standout performers of the competition with an 83 percent save rate.

However, AS FAR will be without injured centre-back Fallou Mendy, forcing a defensive adjustment.

Sundowns are expected to dominate possession and push aggressively in attack, while AS FAR will look to remain compact and threaten on the counter-attack.

The away goals rule remains in effect, adding importance to AS FAR's chances of scoring in Pretoria ahead of the return leg in Rabat on May 24.

AS FAR have been more rested in the build-up, while Sundowns have played a heavy schedule in recent weeks.

Sundowns have never lost a home tie against Moroccan opposition in the Champions League, while AS FAR have shown strong resilience away from home throughout their campaign.

With both teams boasting strong defensive records and contrasting styles, the first leg is expected to be tight, with little margin for error in the race for continental glory.

Preview: Maniema Union vs Mamelodi Sundowns in Kinshasa