Santos vs. Cardoso: A Portuguese Tactical Battle for the Champions League Final

Royal Army has returned to the CAF Champions League final after a long absence, overcoming Renaissance Berkane in the continental competition's semi-finals, thus confirming their strong comeback to the African stage.

This qualification is historic, as the military team reaches the final after a 41-year wait, since their sole triumph in 1985, marking one of their most significant milestones in the competition.

Royal Army secured their spot in the final after winning the first leg 2-0, despite a 1-0 defeat in the return leg, progressing on aggregate.

The military club will face Mamelodi Sundowns in the final. The first leg is scheduled for May 15 in Pretoria, with the return leg taking place on May 24 in Rabat, the capital.

This encounter will have a unique tactical dimension, featuring a clash between two Portuguese coaches: Alexandre Santos, head coach of Royal Army, and Miguel Cardoso, Mamelodi Sundowns' coach. The match is expected to be decided by precise technical details.

Santos will be coaching in his first continental final, while Cardoso reaches this stage for the third consecutive time, having previously led Sundowns to two finals and Esperance to one. This adds a competitive edge to the final, pitting the ambition of a newcomer against the experience of a seasoned finalist.