Mamelodi Sundowns Set To Keep African Dominance In The African-Asian-Pacific Cup As They Face Asian Champions
Mamelodi Sundowns will look to extend Africa’s strong record in the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup when they take on Saudi Arabian champions Al Ahli on 19 September 2026 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.
The Brazilians are the latest African representatives to reach this stage of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup pathway, following Egyptian clubs Al Ahly and Pyramids FC, who won the previous two editions.
Al Ahly made history in 2024 after defeating United Arab Emirates side Al Ain 3–0 to claim the inaugural African-Asian-Pacific Cup. A year later, Pyramids FC continued Egypt’s dominance by beating Al Ahli Saudi 3–1 in the 2025 final.
For Al Ahli, this year’s meeting will be another opportunity to win the trophy after falling short against Pyramids last year. The Saudi side reached the 2026 final after defeating Auckland FC 1–0.
Sundowns, meanwhile, earned their place as Africa’s representatives after their continental success and will now attempt to become the first South African club to lift the African-Asian-Pacific Cup.
The South African champions also arrive at the encounter in strong domestic form. Sundowns currently sit top of the Betway Premiership after eight matches, having recorded six victories and two draws. They remain unbeaten, although their latest league fixture ended in a 1–1 draw against Chippa United.
Al Ahli have had a less consistent start to their Saudi Pro League campaign. They are currently sixth after six matches, with three wins, one draw and two defeats. However, their most recent league outing ended in an emphatic 5–0 victory over Al Riyadh.
Beyond the silverware, the winner will also move forward in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, keeping alive their hopes of reaching the final against European champions Paris Saint-Germain.
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