Re Kaofela: A Red Bull Night of Continental Connection

Author: Erica Mathye

After a night of shoe-shine and piano, where South African kasi flair met European precision, Mamelodi Sundowns were crowned champions of the inaugural Red Bull Last Namba Cup, defeating RB Leipzig 3-1 in a pulsating exhibition clash at Lucas Moripe Stadium.

Both teams approached the occasion with attacking intent, delivering a fast-paced encounter that kept the crowd engaged throughout. RB Leipzig took the lead through 17-year-old Samba Konaté, but the CAF Champions League holders responded strongly after the interval.

Brayan León levelled in the 76th minute before striking again in the 89th, finishing clinically after a precise delivery from Nuno Santos. In stoppage time, Academy graduate Bennet Mokoena completed the comeback with a powerful finish, sealing a memorable victory and sparking celebrations inside Lucas Moripe Stadium.

Veteran goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who captained the team on the night, reflected on a special occasion to close out an unforgettable season while praising the next generation of Sundowns talent.

“It means a lot to win this trophy in front of our supporters, especially after the CAF Champions League success. Finishing the season like this is a reward for the hard work everyone has put in throughout the year. I was also proud of the young players who stepped up and showed their quality against strong opposition. We have seen many of them throughout the season, and tonight was another reminder that the future of this Club is in good hands.”

One of those players was Tashreeq Matthews, who featured in a Sundowns shirt proudly carrying two stars following the club’s recent CAF Champions League triumph. Having spent part of his developmental years in Germany, the encounter against RB Leipzig carried extra significance. He came close to scoring in the 50th minute when his effort struck the post.

“It was a fantastic feeling to play with two stars on the badge. That is something every player dreams about contributing to. Having spent time in Germany earlier in my career, it was also special to face a club like Leipzig. These are the kinds of matches you enjoy because they test you against top-quality opposition.”

Matthews was equally pleased with his contribution during a season that delivered both individual growth and collective success.

“I am happy with my performances and the role I played in helping the team achieve its objectives. There is always room to improve, but winning the Champions League and ending the season with another trophy makes it very satisfying.”

While Sundowns celebrated another successful evening, the occasion also marked a memorable chapter for RB Leipzig, who were visiting Africa for the first time as part of their “RE KAOFELA” tour. The Bundesliga side spent time engaging with local communities, experiencing South African football culture and visiting Mamelodi Sundowns Soccer Schools.

Defender Lukas Klostermann reflected on an experience that extended well beyond the ninety minutes on the pitch.

“We really enjoyed our time in South Africa. The activities, the energy and meeting the young players at the Sundowns Soccer Schools made it very special for us.”
He also acknowledged the challenge posed by the newly crowned African champions.

Speaking ahead of the match, he said “We know we are facing a team that has just won the CAF Champions League, so we expect a strong challenge. They are very good opponents and the atmosphere will be incredible. Congratulations to them on the win and on their Champions League title.”

Forward Johan Bakayoko was equally impressed by the occasion and the unique atmosphere created by the Lucas Moripe crowd.

“What I enjoyed most was the moment with the fans in Mamelodi. They showed us the culture and how they cheer the team. They are the real 12th man.”

Bakayoko also shared his thoughts on the upcoming FIFA World Cup and his hopes for the Belgian National team’s challenge for football’s biggest prize. “Belgium will always be my first choice, of course. I hope that they will make it to the final.”
While the result added another trophy to Sundowns’ growing collection, the occasion represented something bigger — a football partnership built on shared ambition, cultural exchange and player development.

It also reinforced Mamelodi Sundowns’ ability to compete with leading European opposition, building on experiences gained at the FIFA Club World Cup and further strengthening the Club’s growing reputation on the global stage.

As the celebrations continued long after the final whistle, the inaugural Red Bull Last Namba provided a fitting conclusion to a season that delivered history, silverware and another reminder that Sundowns’ ambitions stretch far beyond the African continent.

Those who attended the match at Lucas Moripe Stadium did not only witness an entertaining game on the field; they were also captivated by the half-time show, which featured the car-spinning sensation Sam Sam (Samkeliso Thubane), who put his “Gusheshe” (a heavily modified BMW E30) through its paces during the break.