Mamelodi Sundowns beat Al Ahli to win FIFA Intercontinental Cup

Nuno Santos scored twice as Mamelodi Sundowns claimed the 2026 FIFA Intercontinental Cup with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Asian champions Al Ahli on home soil.

The South African giants looked destined for extra time after the two sides went into the closing stages level at 1-1, but Santos struck late to complete his brace and secure one of the biggest trophies in the club’s history.

Sundowns, representing Africa as CAF Champions League winners, made a bright start and took the lead through Santos, who finished off a flowing attacking move to put the hosts in front.

However, the first half ended level after goalkeeper and captain Ronwen Williams inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, handing Al Ahli an equaliser despite Sundowns’ dominance for large spells of the opening 45 minutes.

The Saudi side grew into the contest after the break and threatened to force the match beyond regulation time, while Sundowns continued to press for a winner in front of their home supporters.

Their persistence paid off in the closing moments.

With the match seemingly heading for extra time, Santos produced the decisive moment, firing home his second goal of the evening to restore Sundowns’ lead and spark celebrations among the home crowd.

The late strike sealed a 2-1 victory and crowned Mamelodi Sundowns as the 2026 FIFA Intercontinental Cup champions.

The triumph adds another landmark achievement to Sundowns’ growing continental pedigree, with the Pretoria club overcoming Asia’s champions to lift the global title and underline the strength of African club football on the international stage.