Mamelodi Sundowns continued their remarkable international journey after defeating Saudi Arabian giants Al Ahli 2-1 in Pretoria on Saturday to claim the African-Asian-Pacific Cup and advance in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
Fresh from being crowned 2026 CAF Champions League winners, the Brazilians delivered another major result on the global stage, with Portuguese midfielder Nuno Santos emerging as the hero after scoring both goals.
Santos opened the scoring in the 17th minute, giving Sundowns the perfect start against an Al Ahli side packed with international quality.
However, the visitors responded just two minutes later when Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was unfortunate to concede an own goal, bringing Al Ahli level at 1-1.
The contest remained tightly balanced as both teams searched for the decisive breakthrough, but Sundowns continued to show the composure and determination that have defined their recent continental success.
With just 10 minutes remaining, Santos struck again.
The Portuguese midfielder found the net in the 80th minute to restore Sundowns’ advantage and ultimately seal a memorable 2-1 victory for the South African champions.
The result saw Sundowns lift the African-Asian-Pacific Cup and secure their place in the next phase of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
They will now contest the Challenger Cup, where they are set to face the winner of the clash between Mexican side Toluca and the Copa Libertadores champions.
Victory there would put the Brazilians within touching distance of an even bigger prize — a potential Intercontinental Cup showdown against European giants Paris Saint-Germain.
For Sundowns, the victory over Al Ahli represents another significant moment in their growing international profile.
From conquering Africa to overcoming one of Asia’s leading clubs, Bafana Ba Style’s global journey continues — and an even bigger stage could be waiting
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