Nuno Santos was the match-winner as Mamelodi Sundowns FC secured a 2-1 victory over Al Ahli Jeddah on Saturday to progress to the FIFA Challenger Cup final. The win at a sold-out Loftus Versfeld Stadium continued the team's impressive unbeaten run this season, which sees them top the Premier Soccer League standings with 20 points from eight games. Their recent form has been formidable, with the team scoring an average of 2.5 goals per game over their last six matches across all competitions.
Santos opened the scoring after 17 minutes, heading home a cross from Teboho Mokoena that was initially delivered by Aubrey Modiba on the left flank. The lead was short-lived, however, as Al Ahli equalised just two minutes later through an own goal. A cross from Zakaria Al Hawsawi deflected off Sundowns goalkeeper Ronwen Williams and into the net.
The decisive moment arrived ten minutes from time. Substitute Thabang Matuludi, making his debut, provided the assist for Santos to score his second with a diving header past Edouard Mendy. The Portuguese forward's performance earned him the man of the match award, and his goals came from a total of 68 minutes of playing time. Midfielder Marcelo Allende was instrumental in dictating the tempo and breaking up play, providing a solid platform for the attack. The team's performance was later described as a 'shoe shine and piano' masterclass, blending hard work with creative flair.
Coach Miguel Cardoso had framed the tournament as a clash of elites before kick-off. "This was not an open tournament, but rather a clash of the world's elite teams vying for ultimate bragging rights," he said. After the final whistle, he was hoisted aloft by club legend Tiyani Mabunda in celebration. Cardoso's tactical setup, executed by a key group in the squad, successfully neutralised a dangerous Al Ahli side for large portions of the contest.
The victory means Sundaways will face either the South American or North American champions in the FIFA Challenger Cup final. Attention now turns back to domestic duties, with the next fixture an away trip to face Richards Bay on 17 October, a match listed in the team's upcoming fixtures. The club will hope to maintain their momentum and extend their lead at the summit of the domestic league.
The report in full is at capetimes.co.za
