Al-Ahli face history in South Africa

Al-Ahli, the Asian champions, face a new challenge in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup when they prepare to take on Mamelodi Sundowns, the African champions, in an anticipated battle for the continental trophy.

The match takes place in South Africa, searching for the title of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup among the competitions of the 2026 edition, in a new test between the champions of the two continents.

The clash between Asian and African champions has renewed for the third time since the launch of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup in its new format in 2024, after the previous two encounters saw a remarkable superiority.

The beginning came in the first edition, when Al-Ain, the Asian champion, faced Al-Ahli, the African champion, at Cairo Stadium, and the match ended with Al-Ahli winning by three goals to nil.

In the next edition, Jeddah hosted a match between Al-Ahli, the Asian champion, and Pyramids FC, the African champion, before the Egyptian team secured the victory with a score of 3-1.

Mamelodi Sundowns FC face Al-Ahli in their third appearance at this stage, while Al-Ahli aims for their first victory in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup after losing to Pyramids FC in their previous participation.

Al-Ahli have made an exceptional presence in the tournament, becoming the first club to play in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup three times since the new system was implemented.

Al-Ahli's ambition does not stop at facing Mamelodi Sundowns FC, as a victory would give them the opportunity to continue their journey towards the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, which will later bring together the winner of the Americas Cup.

The winner continues their path to the final, where they will face Paris Saint-Germain, the European champions, in a match that will determine the champion of the current edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

Al-Ahli are looking to make amends for their previous exit as they face a challenge to end the African dominance in the intercontinental encounters of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

The clash with Mamelodi Sundowns FC gives the Saudi team a chance to write a new chapter in the tournament, by seizing the title and breaking the equation imposed by previous encounters.

Al-Ahli seeks its first victory in the third match with a different character. The path to the final presents an opportunity to change history.