Mamelodi Sundowns await Intercontinental Cup opponents

Mamelodi Sundowns will soon discover their first opponents in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup as two clubs from different footballing worlds meet for the right to face the South African champions.

Sundowns secured their place in the tournament after winning the 2025-26 CAF Champions League, earning a bye into the second round of a competition that brings together the continental champions from FIFA’s six confederations.

Their opponents will be decided on Wednesday, 26 August, when Saudi Arabian champions Al Ahli SC take on New Zealand’s Auckland FC in the opening round.

The winner of that tie will advance to face Sundowns, although FIFA has yet to confirm the date for the second-round encounter. Reports suggest the fixture could be played in late September.

The Intercontinental Cup adds to an already demanding schedule for Sundowns, who are competing across several domestic and international competitions this season.

Should Miguel Cardoso’s side progress all the way to the final, they would face UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain.

The French club are also the reigning Intercontinental Cup holders after lifting the trophy in 2025.