South African Government Hails Sundowns After Historic FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup Triumph

The South African Government has congratulated Mamelodi Sundowns on their historic 2-1 victory over Saudi Arabian powerhouse Al Ahli to capture the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup at a rocking Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Saturday, 19 September 2026. The victory marked another major milestone for the Tshwane giants as they continued their impressive rise on the international stage.

Sundowns produced a spirited performance against the Saudi champions, matching their highly-rated opponents from start to finish in front of a passionate home crowd. The victory secured a prestigious international trophy and reinforced the club’s status as one of Africa’s leading football forces.

The hero of the evening was Nuno Santos, who scored both goals for Masandawana to secure the memorable win. His clinical finishing proved decisive as the Brazilians overcame a tough Al Ahli side to send Loftus Versfeld into celebration.

Following the historic achievement, the South African Government released a congratulatory statement on X, praising the club for its success and the pride it has brought to the nation.

“Congratulations to Mamelodi Sundowns!” the Government stated. “The African champions have secured the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup after defeating Al Ahli 2–1 at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria, with Nuno Santos scoring both goals.”

The Government also highlighted the significance of the achievement for South African football. “The victory sees The Brazilians progress to the next stage of the 2026 FIFA Intercontinental Cup, carrying the hopes of South African and African football onto the global stage,” the statement added.

Sundowns’ latest success has now earned them a place in the FIFA Challenger Cup, where they will face the winner of the FIFA Derby of the Americas. The highly anticipated clash will see Concacaf Champions Cup winners Toluca take on the champions of the 2026 CONMEBOL Libertadores, with South America’s representatives set to be crowned in Montevideo, Uruguay, on 28 November.

The stakes continue to rise for Miguel Cardoso’s men as victory in the FIFA Challenger Cup would secure a place in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final. Such an achievement would provide another historic opportunity for the Pretoria-based side to compete for one of the biggest prizes in world club football.

The South African Government also paid tribute to everyone who contributed to the club’s triumph. “Congratulations to the players, technical team, management and supporters of Mamelodi Sundowns on this historic achievement,” the statement read.

With the final three matches of the 2026 FIFA Intercontinental Cup scheduled to take place in a host country yet to be announced, Sundowns now shift their focus to the next chapter of their international adventure. Their victory over Al Ahli has ensured that their dream run remains alive as they continue chasing global glory.

The Government’s message concluded with a powerful expression of national pride: “South Africa is proud!” Having already conquered the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup and booked their place in the next stage of the competition, Masandawana remain on course to add another remarkable chapter to what is becoming one of the most memorable international campaigns in South African football history.