Mamelodi Sundowns earn Eduardo Mendy’s praise after Al Ahli defeat

Al Ahli captain and goalkeeper Eduardo Mendy praised Mamelodi Sundowns despite the Saudi club’s 2-1 defeat by the African champions in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup at Loftus Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Asian champions created several opportunities against their African opponents but were unable to take advantage of them, leaving Mendy to reflect on a match he felt Al Ahli could have won.

Mendy said Al Ahli had expected a demanding contest against a strong Sundowns team and were not surprised by the quality they encountered.

“We played a strong opponent, as we expected. We were not surprised by the level, but I think we faced a strong team, as I said already. Even though we played a strong team, we produced very good football,” said Mendy.

The former Senegal international admitted the result had left the Al Ahli dressing room disappointed, particularly after the chances they failed to convert during the first half.

“We had the best situations, especially in the first half, but unfortunately, we didn’t score. At this level, when it’s a final, it’s about details, and the details didn’t go our way,” he said.

“So, we are very frustrated and disappointed because I think we could have gone for more. But this is football; we need to rest and, moving forward, think about our next goals.”

Mendy nevertheless said his time in South Africa had made a lasting impression, despite Al Ahli’s loss to Mamelodi Sundowns.