Mamelodi Sundowns FC win Asian-Pacific Cup

Mamelodi Sundowns have moved one step closer to the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final after defeating Saudi Arabian giants Al Ahli 2-1 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.

The African champions secured the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup with the victory, with Portuguese forward Nuno Santos producing the decisive performance by scoring both of Sundowns’ goals.

Santos opened the scoring in the 17th minute when he rose to meet Teboho Mokoena’s cross and headed the ball beyond Al Ahli goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.

Al Ahli responded just two minutes later. Feras Al Brikan’s effort resulted in an own goal from Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, bringing the Saudi side back into the contest.

The teams went into half-time level at 1-1, with both sides creating opportunities to take the advantage.

Sundowns eventually found the winning goal in the 80th minute. Santos was again in the right position inside the penalty area and headed home to complete his brace and give the home side a 2-1 victory.

The result means Sundowns have advanced to the FIFA Challenger Cup, where they will meet the winner of the FIFA Derby of the Americas between Mexican club Toluca and the eventual 2026 CONMEBOL Libertadores champions.

Sundowns are now just one victory away from reaching the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final, where defending champions Paris Saint-Germain are already waiting. FIFA says the dates and host venue for the remaining matches will be confirmed later.

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