Mamelodi Sundowns have officially cemented their status as the undisputed giants of South African football, becoming the first PSL club to secure five international and continental trophies.
Also see: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Al Ahli: All eyes on Loftus Versfeld Stadium on 19 September
The Pretoria-based side achieved this historic milestone after capturing the FIFA African, Asian, Pacific Cup stage title, expanding an already iconic cabinet that reflects over a decade of dominance beyond domestic borders.
A decisive victory on the global stage
The milestone victory unfolded at Loftus Versfeld, where Masandawana put on a tactical masterclass against Saudi Arabian outfit Al Ahli. Portuguese forward Nuno Santos proved the hero of the day, netting a decisive brace, opening the scoring with an early finish before heading home an 80th-minute winner to seal a 2–1 victory.
Under the guidance of head coach Miguel Cardoso, the triumph not only secured the FIFA African–Asian–Pacific Cup, but also propelled Sundowns into the FIFA Challenger Cup stage, setting up a clash against CONCACAF champions Toluca for a place in the final against European giants Paris Saint-Germain.
Over a decade of international excellence
Sundowns’ journey to five international titles began in 2016 under Pitso Mosimane, when the club conquered the continent to lift its inaugural CAF Champions League trophy, quickly followed by the 2017 CAF Super Cup. In 2023, the club added another groundbreaking achievement by winning the inaugural African Football League title.
Also see: Mamelodi Sundowns dominate Siwelele in convincing 3-0 win
Following another sensational CAF Champions League title triumph in 2026, Masandawana’s latest silverware confirms their unmatched ability to compete and succeed at the highest levels of club football.
A record financial windfall for South African football
Beyond making history on the pitch, Sundowns’ continental exploits continue to set financial benchmarks for South African clubs. The victory adds approximately R35 million in FIFA prize money to the R98 million ($6 million) earned from their 2025–26 CAF Champions League campaign.
Pushing their international earnings past R133 million in a single season, the Chloorkop outfit continues to demonstrate how sustained continental success fuels institutional growth, professional player recruitment, and long-term dominance across the African continent.
Also see: Mamelodi Sundowns set to battle Siwelele at Loftus Versfeld
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