Mamelodi Sundowns set for FIFA African–Asian–Pacific Cup play-off clash in Pretoria

Mamelodi Sundowns will face the winner of Al Ahly (Saudi Arabia) and Auckland City (New Zealand) in the FIFA African–Asian–Pacific Cup play-off, with the decisive fixture set to be staged at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria.

The CAF Champions League holders will once again carry African hopes on home soil, as they prepare for a high-stakes encounter against a yet-to-be-confirmed opponent from the AFC–OFC pathway.

The tie forms part of FIFA’s intercontinental qualification structure, which brings together club champions from different confederations in a progressive knockout format.

Sundowns’ participation comes on the back of another successful continental campaign that has reinforced their status among Africa’s elite clubs.

The Pretoria-based side, known for their tactical discipline and squad depth, will be aiming to make full use of home advantage when the play-off eventually takes place.

However, attention remains firmly on the opposing semi-final between Al Ahly and Auckland City, which will determine who advances to face the South African giants.

The Saudi Arabia and New Zealand clubs bring contrasting football traditions, with Al Ahly’s continental pedigree meeting Auckland City’s long-standing dominance in Oceania club football.

FIFA is yet to confirm the official match dates, but anticipation is already building around what is expected to be a tightly contested intercontinental showdown in Pretoria.

The fixture represents another major opportunity for Sundowns to showcase African club football on a global stage, with a potential pathway to further intercontinental honours depending on the outcome.