Mamelodi Sundowns defeat Al Ahli with 'shoe shine and piano' masterclass

Nuno Santos scored a brace as Mamelodi Sundowns defeated Al Ahli 2-1 at Loftus Versfeld to win the Fifa Africa-Asia-Pacific Cup on Saturday in Pretoria. Fifa Africa-Asia-Pacific Cup Mamelodi Sundowns' Nunu Santos, right, celebrates after scoring during the FIFA Intercontinental Cup against Al-Ahli at the Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Image: Itumeleng English / ANA Studio Mamelodi Sundowns continue to prove why they represent the pinnacle of African football, dominating not only on the continent, but on the global stage as well. A few days ahead of South Africa’s Heritage Day, Sundowns put their signature "shoe shine and piano" style on full display to beat Al Ahli 2-1, securing the Fifa Africa-Asia-Pacific Cup at a sold-out Loftus Versfeld on Saturday afternoon. Magician Nuno Santos produced a stellar performance to steer Sundowns into the next round of the Fifa Intercontinental Cup, as the Brazilians outmuscled their Asian counterparts. Coach Miguel Cardoso had boldly stated before the match that this was not an open tournament, but rather a clash of the world's elite teams vying for ultimate bragging rights. He was vindicated at the final whistle. Running across the pitch to salute the supporters in the stands, he was hoisted aloft by club legend Tiyani Mabunda before punching the air in pure euphoria. As the continent's premier side, Sundowns were tasked with defending African prestige against their Asian rivals.

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Region

Northern Cape, South Africa

Published

20 Sep 2026

Languages

English

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