Mosimane the common key between Al-Ahli and Mamelodi Sundowns

Al-Ahli face Mamelodi Sundowns today, Saturday, in a decisive match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria to determine the champion of the Confederations Cup 2026.

Real Madrid enters the match with a special achievement, becoming the first team to play in the Confederations Cup for the second time, following their appearance in the previous edition against Pyramids FC.

Al-Ahli are looking to leverage their previous experience to overcome Mamelodi Sundowns FC in search of their first victory at this stage, before continuing their path towards winning the continental title.

Al-Ahli's victory gives them the chance to continue their journey to the Confederations Cup, which later brings together the champion of the Confederations Cup with the champion of the Americas Cup, before facing Paris Saint-Germain, the European champion, in the final.

The match carries a special connection between Al-Ahli and Mamelodi Sundowns FC, represented by South African Pitso Mosimane, who recently returned to lead his national team after leaving a clear mark with both teams.

Pitso Mosimane led Mamelodi Sundowns FC for eight years, from 2012 to 2020, and during that time he achieved four South African league titles, along with four other domestic trophies.

His experience with Mamelodi Sundowns FC culminated in winning the CAF Champions League and the African Super Cup before moving to Cairo in the summer of 2020 to take charge of Al-Ahli.

Pitso Mosimane has written a successful chapter with Al-Ahli, leading the team to domestic and continental titles, as well as securing the bronze medal in the FIFA Club World Cup twice.

His experience extended to Saudi Arabia, where he took charge of Al-Ahli with the aim of restoring the team to its place among the elite of the Roshen League. He achieved 19 victories, 7 draws, and 3 defeats in 29 matches.

After other coaching experiences, including Abha, Mosimane has returned to the spotlight with the South Africa national team, as his name resurfaces ahead of the clash between Al-Ahli and Mamelodi Sundowns FC in Pretoria.