Mamelodi Sundowns have received positive news following their dramatic 2-1 victory over Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli in the African-Asian-Pacific Cup, with the South African champions avoiding a potential additional fine from FIFA despite the disciplinary incidents during the match.

The encounter took place at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on September 19, where Sundowns secured an important victory to advance to the 2026 FIFA Intercontinental Cup Challenger Cup. The result marked another significant achievement for the Pretoria-based club as they continued to represent African football on the international stage.

During the match, Brayan Leon, Teboho Mokoena and Nuno Santos were among the players cautioned by the referee. FIFA's disciplinary regulations provide for additional team sanctions when the number of bookings reaches the applicable threshold. However, Sundowns have so far avoided further disciplinary charges arising from the match.

The development is encouraging for coach Miguel Cardoso, who will be hoping to have his squad available for the club's upcoming international commitments without unnecessary disciplinary complications.

There is also relief regarding the competition's suspension rules. Under Article 8 of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup regulations, certain yellow cards and outstanding suspensions from confederation competitions are not carried over into the tournament. This means Leon and Mokoena will not begin the competition carrying yellow cards accumulated in the CAF Champions League.

Sundowns are now preparing for another challenging assignment, with a potential meeting against European champions Paris Saint-Germain awaiting them if they progress through the Challenger Cup.

Their opponents will emerge from the FIFA Derby of the Americas, which is scheduled to feature Mexican side Toluca, representing Concacaf, against the Copa Libertadores winners. The winner will face Sundowns, with the victorious team advancing to the final against PSG.

By defeating Al Ahli, Sundowns also became the third African club to win the African-Asian-Pacific Cup, strengthening their continental reputation.

Meanwhile, Cardoso has called on the Premier Soccer League and the South African Football Association to cooperate with the club in rescheduling domestic fixtures affected by their international commitments. The coach believes careful coordination will be essential as Sundowns balance their domestic campaign with the demands of competing on the global stage.

Source

https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2111136403945881863