Stade Malien: 5 things to know about Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAFCL QF opponents

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Stade Malien: 5 things to know about Mamelodi Sundowns’ CAFCL QF opponents
Photo source: Stade Maliens de Bamako/Facebook

Stade Malien are set to clash with Mamelodi Sundowns in the quarter‑finals (Last 8) of the 2025–26 CAF Champions League.

The draw, conducted in Cairo on 17 February 2026, pitted the South African giants against the Malian underdogs, who have impressed across the group stages with a mix of tactical discipline and attacking flair.

This tie is set to be a historic moment for the Bamako-based side, who have advanced deeper into Africa’s premier club competition than ever before.

Ahead of the first leg in March, here’s everything you need to know about the “Whites” of Mali.

Historic CAF Champions League Run

    Stade Malien are making history in the 2025–26 CAF Champions League by becoming the first Malian club to reach the knockout stages of the competition under its current format.

    After topping their group, they secured their Last 8 spot with a 1‑0 victory over Tunisian powerhouse Espérance.

    CAFCL draw
    CAFCL draw. Photo by CAF

    Stade Malien: Mali’s Most Decorated Club

      Founded in 1960, Malien is widely regarded as Mali’s most successful football club.

      Over its 65-plus years, the Bamako-based side has collected more domestic trophies than any other team in the country, including numerous league titles and Malian Cups.

      Coulibaly, Nkeng, others

        Daouda Coulibaly has been a standout figure this season, scoring crucial goals in the CAF Champions League group stages. Alongside him, Taddeus Nkeng has been a joint-leading scorer, while coach Mauril Njoya has transformed the team with tactical organisation.

        Stade Maliens de Bamako
        Photo source: Stade Maliens de Bamako/ Facebook

        Strong Group Stage Form

          The Malian side impressed throughout the group phase, remaining unbeaten against strong opponents.

          Their disciplined approach and timely victories, including a 2‑1 win over Tanzania’s Simba SC, showed they can compete with established African clubs and are more than just underdogs heading into the quarter-finals

          Home Advantage vs Mamelodi Sundowns

            Stade Malien play their home games at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako, enjoying one of Mali’s most vibrant football atmospheres.

            Mamelodi Sundowns players vs MC Alger
            Mamelodi Sundowns players. Photo source: Makonco_M/x

            Their passionate supporters create an intimidating environment for visiting teams, which could prove decisive when the Downs visit for the second leg.

            <!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

            Ayomide Oguntimehin

            Editor Site Coordinator

            Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Chief Editor at Soccernet NG, Afrik Foot Nigeria & South Africa. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.