Mamelodi Sundowns face Al Ahli test in FIFA Intercontinental Cup quarter-final

Mamelodi Sundowns will face Al Ahli in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup quarter-final on Saturday, 19 September, with kick-off scheduled for 13:00 GMT.

The South African side are expected to rely on a compact but experienced squad led by captain Ronwen Williams. The goalkeeper remains a key figure for Mamelodi Sundowns, combining authority in the area with the experience required for a match of this importance.

In front of Williams, Sundowns are set to field a physically strong defence, while their midfield is expected to provide both power and creativity. The side’s attacking threat comes from its pace and efficiency in transition, with a balanced squad combining established players and emerging talent.

Mamelodi Sundowns probable XI

Goalkeeper: Ronwen Williams

Defenders: Aubrey Modiba, Khulumani Ndamane, Malibongwe Khoza, Thapelo Morena

Midfielders: Marcelo Allende, Teboho Mokoena, Tashreeq Matthews, Nuno Santos, Siyanda Ndlovu

Forward: Brayan Leon

Al Ahli will have a major attacking threat of their own in Ivan Toney. The England striker has made an outstanding start to the season in the Saudi Pro League, scoring 10 goals in seven appearances.

That record puts Toney comfortably at the top of the competition’s scoring charts. However, he was unable to find the net in Al Ahli’s most recent match, a 1-1 draw with Pakhtakor in the Asian Champions League.

Al Ahli are expected to line up with Edouard Mendy in goal and a back four featuring Saad Balobaid, Rayan Hamed Hamidou, Merih Demiral and Saeed Baattia.

Eduard Spertsyan, Valentin Atangana and Saleh Abou Al Shamat are the predicted midfield trio, while Galeno, Toney and Francisco Trincao are expected to form the attack.

Al Ahli probable XI

Goalkeeper: Edouard Mendy

Defenders: Saad Balobaid, Rayan Hamed Hamidou, Merih Demiral, Saeed Baattia

Midfielders: Eduard Spertsyan, Valentin Atangana, Saleh Abou Al Shamat

Forwards: Galeno, Ivan Toney, Francisco Trincao

Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahli will meet in the last eight of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, with both teams aiming to secure a place in the semi-finals.