Mamelodi Sundowns produced a spirited team performance to defeat Al Ahli Saudi 2-1 and claim the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup, with Nuno Santos scoring both goals for the South African champions.
Sundowns made a strong start at Loftus Versfeld and took the lead in the 17th minute when Santos rose to meet Teboho Mokoena’s cross and headed the ball beyond the Al Ahli goalkeeper.
The Saudi Arabian side responded just two minutes later, with Feras Al Buraikan’s effort eventually resulting in an own goal by Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to restore parity.
Both sides continued to compete for control, but Sundowns remained composed and continued to create opportunities as the match progressed.
The decisive moment arrived in the 80th minute when Santos completed his brace with another headed finish, restoring Sundowns’ advantage and putting the hosts 2-1 ahead.
Al Ahli pushed for an equaliser during the closing stages, but Sundowns held firm to secure the victory and lift the African-Asian-Pacific Cup.
The triumph represents another significant achievement for the South African club following their success in the 2025/26 CAF Champions League.
Sundowns now advance to the next stage of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, where they will face the winner of the Derby of the Americas for a place in the final.
The victory was ultimately built around Santos’ two goals, but Sundowns’ disciplined collective performance across the 90 minutes proved equally important as they overcame the AFC champions.