Mamelodi Sundowns are just a few victories away from a potential blockbuster meeting with Paris Saint-Germain — but first, they must overcome Al Ahli at Loftus Versfeld.
Masandawana return to continental action on Saturday, 19 September, when they welcome the Saudi giants to Pretoria for a high-stakes second-round clash in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.
With the possibility of facing European champions PSG further down the competition, Sundowns have plenty of motivation to deliver a statement performance on home soil.
Sundowns’ road to PSG starts at Loftus
Sundowns earned a bye into the second round after winning the CAF Champions League last season.
Al Ahli, meanwhile, began their campaign in the opening round, defeating Oceania champions Auckland FC 1-0 in Jeddah.
Now the African champions and Asian champions meet with progression at stake.
The winner of Saturday’s clash advances to the FIFA Challenger Cup, where another major test awaits.
If Sundowns progress, they will face the winner of the match between CONCACAF champions Deportivo Toluca and the 2026 Copa Libertadores champions.
And should Masandawana navigate that hurdle, PSG await in the final showdown.
That makes Saturday’s encounter much more than a standalone fixture — it is potentially the first major step towards a dream meeting with one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Al Ahli bring plenty of firepower
Sundowns will have to be at their best against an Al Ahli side packed with international talent.
The Saudi club had nine players selected for national squads ahead of the 2026 World Cup, including Edouard Mendy, Riyad Mahrez, Ivan Toney and Ali Majrashi.
Al Ahli have also entered a new chapter under coach Marino Pušić, who took over in August.
While their early results have been mixed, the quality within the squad means Sundowns cannot afford to underestimate their opponents.
Sundowns looking for a response
Miguel Cardoso’s team will also be eager to respond after dropping points domestically.
Masandawana were held to a 1-1 draw by Chippa United in their most recent Premiership outing.
The result was made more frustrating by the late venue change, with Cardoso pointing to difficult pitch conditions as a factor in Sundowns’ performance.
The Intercontinental Cup now presents an opportunity to put that disappointment behind them.
A victory over Al Ahli would not only keep Sundowns’ international trophy ambitions alive but would also give the South African champions another chance to demonstrate their quality against elite opposition.
Sundowns vs Al Ahli: Match details
Fixture: Mamelodi Sundowns vs Al Ahli SC
Competition: FIFA Intercontinental Cup – Second Round
Date: Saturday, 19 September 2026
Venue: Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria
Kick-off: 15:00 SAST
Referee: Sandro Schärer
The stakes are clear: win at Loftus, move into the next round and keep the PSG dream alive.
Can Bafana Ba Style take another step towards an unforgettable showdown with Paris Saint-Germain?
What will the final score be?
