Tactical analysis: How Busic's decisions denied Al-Ahli global glory?

Al-Ahli miss out on the chance to win the FIFA Intercontinental Cup for the second consecutive season after losing 1-2 to Mamelodi Sundowns FC in a clash between the champions of Asia and Africa in the 2026 FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

Al-Ahli have repeated the scenario from last year's edition, losing the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final to Pyramids FC 1-3, as the team continues its search for the first global title for a Saudi club, amid sharp criticism from fans directed at coach Marino Pusic.

Al-Ahli's second-half decline raised many questions as Mamelodi Sundowns FC dominated possession with 71% of the ball. This was due to the retreat of the midfield and defensive players, which granted Sundowns greater space for passing, penetrating, and creating danger.

The effects of Pretoria's atmosphere and lack of oxygen were evident on Al-Ahli players after the middle of the second half, but Bosić delayed his intervention, despite having attacking options capable of exploiting the advance of Mamelodi Sundowns FC players.

Galeno made his entrance in the 85th minute, shortly after Mamelodi Sundowns FC's second goal, and played as a left-back, while Saleh Abu Al-Shamat came on in the 90+3 minute, just moments before the final whistle.

After the match, Bousitich said via MBC Action: "I am very sad about the result, and everyone saw the match, we missed many chances in both halves." He added: "This is football; when you don't score, you concede goals."

Al-Ahli's coach emphasized that the winning goal came from a cross, stating: "Anyone who watched the match knows that Al-Ahli did not deserve to lose." With this result, Al-Ahli's second participation in the tournament came to an end, after they overcame Auckland FC before falling to Mamelodi Sundowns FC.