Ivan Toney welcomes hostile atmosphere ahead of Al-Ahli Saudi’s Sundowns test

Ivan Toney says a hostile atmosphere will motivate him as Al-Ahli Saudi prepare to face Mamelodi Sundowns in the Intercontinental Cup on Saturday.

The England striker believes he performs better when matches are played in difficult surroundings and is relishing the challenge of taking on the African champions in front of their home supporters.

Mamelodi Sundowns are expected to benefit from home advantage at their stadium, with the South African side aiming to use the backing of their fans to secure a positive result. Al-Ahli Saudi, meanwhile, are seeking a strong performance away from home in a match that presents a different test for the team.

Speaking to the media before the game, Toney said the intensity of the occasion would increase his motivation rather than concern him.

“For me personally, the more hostile the atmosphere, the better I perform,” he said. “That makes the match more exciting, especially when you are not the favourites at the opponent’s ground.”

Toney acknowledged that Al-Ahli Saudi would need to study their opponents carefully, but insisted that focusing too heavily on Mamelodi Sundowns must not distract his side from its own strengths.

The striker believes he and his team-mates have enough quality to threaten their opponents, and that their attention should remain on how they can influence the match.

“Of course, we analyse the opponent before every game, but I also think it is important to focus on ourselves,” Toney added. “We have a lot of quality, and we need to concentrate on what we can do to hurt them, rather than becoming preoccupied with what they can do against us.”

The fixture carries considerable importance for Al-Ahli Saudi, who want to leave with a positive result and build further momentum. Toney is expected to be one of the main attacking outlets as they look to create chances and make the most of any opportunities in front of goal.

The match will also provide the England forward with the chance to continue his attacking form for Al-Ahli Saudi against an opponent with considerable experience of playing in high-pressure matches.

While Mamelodi Sundowns prepare to draw on the support inside their stadium, Toney appears ready to embrace the pressure of the occasion. He believes the intensity and hostility from the stands could provide an additional incentive to produce a stronger display.

For Al-Ahli Saudi, the contest will be an opportunity to show their character away from home, while Toney will hope his confidence in challenging conditions can help them overcome Mamelodi Sundowns.