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Mamelodi Sundowns vs Al Ahli: All eyes on Loftus Versfeld Stadium on 19 September

2 months By Chumasande Matiwane

Mamelodi Sundowns will host Saudi Arabian giants Al Ahli at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday, 19 September 2026, in the FIFA African Asian-Pacific Cup.

The match forms part of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup and brings together the reigning African and Asian continental champions.

Also see: Orlando Pirates frustrated by goalless draw in CAF Champions League opener

Sundowns secured their place in the fixture after winning the 2025/26 CAF Champions League, while Al Ahli booked their spot after winning the AFC Champions League Elite. Al Ahli then defeated Auckland FC 1-0 in the opening stage of the Intercontinental Cup, with Saleh Abu Al Shamat scoring the decisive goal in the second half. Β 

The Pretoria encounter carries significant importance, with the winner claiming the FIFA African Asian-Pacific Cup and advancing to the next stage of the Intercontinental Cup. The winner will subsequently move into the Challenger Cup phase, keeping alive the possibility of facing European champions Paris Saint-Germain in the tournament’s final stages. Β 

According to CAF Online, the fixture provides an opportunity to test the Sundowns team against one of Asia’s leading clubs on home soil.Β 

Al Ahli enters the contest as the reigning Asian champions, although the Saudi side has undergone significant changes ahead of the new season. Their coach Matthias Jaissle departed for Newcastle United in August and was replaced by Marino Pusic, while several high-profile players have also left the club. Β 

Also see:Β CAFΒ Champions League winners set for record $6m payday

The match is scheduled for 15:00 at Loftus Versfeld on 19 September 2026. Β 

With continental silverware and progression in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup at stake, the clash promises to be a major occasion for South African football and a significant test for Sundowns against one of Asia’s top sides.Β 

Also see: SundownsΒ clinch their second star at the CAF Champions LeagueΒ 

Featured image: X/@ArnoldKhaz97800

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