Mamelodi Sundowns have added another prestigious international honour to their growing trophy cabinet after defeating Saudi Arabian giants Al Ahli 2-1 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday afternoon to claim the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup.
In front of a passionate home crowd in Pretoria, Masandawana produced a composed and determined performance against the reigning AFC Champions League Elite winners, with Nuno Santos scoring both goals to send the South African champions through to the next stage of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
The victory represents another significant achievement for Sundowns on the global stage after their CAF Champions League triumph and keeps their hopes of reaching the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final alive.
Match Summary: FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup
- Teams: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Al Ahli
- Score: Mamelodi Sundowns 2-1 Al Ahli
- Half-time: 1-1
- Venue: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria
- Competition: FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026
- Goalscorers:
- Mamelodi Sundowns: Nuno Santos (17′, 80′)
- Al Ahli: Ronwen Williams (own goal, 19′)
Santos Strikes First as Sundowns Take Control
The encounter got off to an intense start, with both teams showing their attacking intent from the opening minutes.
Sundowns eventually found the breakthrough in the 17th minute when Nuno Santos connected with a superb in-swinging cross from Teboho Mokoena, directing a powerful header into the top corner beyond Al Ahli goalkeeper Édouard Mendy.
The Portuguese forward’s finish sparked celebrations around Loftus Versfeld and gave the hosts an early advantage.
However, Al Ahli responded almost immediately.
Just two minutes after Sundowns had taken the lead, Ivan Toney broke down the left before delivering a low cross towards Firas Al Buraikan. The striker’s effort was saved by Ronwen Williams, but the ball rebounded off the Sundowns goalkeeper and ended up in the net.
The unfortunate own goal restored parity at 1-1 and ensured the two sides went into the halftime interval level.
Sundowns Stand Firm Under Pressure
The second half developed into a tightly contested battle, with both teams creating opportunities as they searched for the decisive goal.
Al Ahli, boasting considerable attacking quality, continued to threaten, while Sundowns remained organised and disciplined defensively.
The visitors came close to taking the lead when Toney found Trincao, although the Portuguese forward’s effort curled wide.
Al Ahli were also awarded a penalty after Toney went down following a challenge from Williams, but the decision was subsequently overturned after an offside was identified in the build-up.
Sundowns continued to push forward themselves, with Khulumani Ndamane coming close after meeting an Aubrey Modiba free-kick. His effort, however, went over the crossbar.
Nuno Santos Delivers the Winning Moment
With the match entering its final stages, Sundowns found the breakthrough they had been searching for.
In the 80th minute, debutant Thabang Matuludi delivered a dangerous cross into the area, and Santos produced another outstanding piece of finishing.
The Portuguese forward threw himself at the ball and connected with a diving header that flew beyond Mendy.
2-1 to Sundowns.
Santos had completed a remarkable brace, and Loftus Versfeld erupted as the home side moved closer to securing the trophy.
Sundowns managed the closing stages effectively, holding on to secure a memorable victory over the Asian champions.
Sundowns Advance to the FIFA Challenger Cup
The victory means Mamelodi Sundowns are officially the 2026 FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup champions.
Their reward is progression to the FIFA Challenger Cup, where they will face the winner of the FIFA Derby of the Americas between Concacaf champions Toluca and the eventual 2026 CONMEBOL Libertadores winners.
The winner of that Challenger Cup encounter will earn a place in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against reigning European champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Another Landmark Moment for South African Football
Sundowns’ triumph represents another important milestone for South African club football.
Having already conquered Africa, Masandawana have now defeated the champions of Asia to secure a trophy on the FIFA Intercontinental Cup pathway.
The performance at Loftus Versfeld showcased Sundowns’ ability to compete against elite opposition from outside the continent, while Santos’ brace provided the decisive difference on a memorable afternoon in Pretoria.
For Miguel Cardoso’s side, however, the journey is far from over.
The African champions have secured their place in the next stage. Now, their attention turns towards the FIFA Challenger Cup and another opportunity to take South African football even closer to the global summit.
