Al-Ahli face Loftus Versfeld test against unbeaten Mamelodi Sundowns

Al-Ahli Saudi face a difficult Fifa Intercontinental Cup assignment on Saturday when they meet Mamelodi Sundowns, a side that has made Loftus Versfeld Stadium one of the toughest venues to visit.

The match begins at 3pm, with Sundowns seeking to use their outstanding home record and strong domestic form to reach the next stage of the competition.

Since Miguel Cardoso took charge in December 2024, Masandawana have lost only once at the Pretoria stadium. That defeat came against Kaizer Chiefs in the MTN8 semi-final in April last year. They remain unbeaten there in league fixtures.

Sundowns also arrive at the match at the top of the Betway Premiership table, having maintained an unbeaten run in domestic football. The African Champions will be aiming to carry that momentum into their first appearance in the Intercontinental Cup.

The conditions are expected to add to Al-Ahli’s challenge. A large and intimidating home crowd, combined with the high altitude at Loftus Versfeld, could provide Sundowns with a significant territorial advantage.

Al-Ahli, managed by Marino Pusic, have not made a convincing start to their domestic campaign and currently sit sixth in their league table. The Saudi club made their debut in the inaugural Intercontinental Cup last term, but were eliminated in the second round after losing 3-1 at home to Egypt’s Pyramids.

Their recent form has also been uneven. Al-Ahli have won two of their past five matches, while their run has included a disappointing draw against Pakhtakor and defeats by Al Hilal and Al Qadsiah.

Sundowns are expected to look to the creativity and influence of Teboho Mokoena, Bryan Leon, Tashreeq Matthews and Marcelo Allende. Al-Ahli, by contrast, rely more heavily on individual moments from high-profile forwards including Ivan Toney and Francisco Trincao.

The match has significance beyond the group-stage result. The winner will claim the Fifa African Asian-Pacific Cup and progress to the next stage of the Intercontinental Cup.

It will also be the first meeting between the two clubs in this competition. For Sundowns, the fixture represents an opportunity to turn their formidable home record and domestic supremacy into continental progress, while Al-Ahli need a response after an inconsistent opening to their season.