Sundowns beat Al Ahli Saudi FC to win Three Continents Cup

Mamelodi Sundowns claimed the Three Continents Cup with a 2-1 victory over Al Ahli Saudi FC in Pretoria, securing the competition after a match decided by two headed goals from Portuguese forward Nuno Santos.

The final was played at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa, where Sundowns recovered from an own goal to secure the trophy.

The result means Al Ahli Saudi FC have lost the competition for a second consecutive year. They were beaten 3-1 by Pyramids FC in last year’s final.

Sundowns took the lead after 17 minutes when Santos produced a well-directed header. Their advantage lasted only three minutes, however, as Al Ahli Saudi FC levelled through an own goal by goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

Williams turned the ball into his own net following a shot from Firas Al-Buraikan, bringing the Saudi Arabian side back into the contest.

Santos restored Sundowns’ lead in the 80th minute with another excellent header. Al Ahli Saudi FC were unable to find a second equaliser as Sundowns protected their advantage until the final whistle.

The victory delivered a third trophy to Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso since he took charge of the team. Cardoso had previously guided the club to the CAF Champions League title and the South African league championship.

Sundowns’ latest success came in the Intercontinental Cup, adding another trophy to their recent run of domestic and continental achievements. The South African club’s defence held firm in the closing stages to complete a 2-1 win and confirm their status as champions.