Paris Saint-Germain have sent a strong warning to Mamelodi Sundowns after defeating Manchester City 4-2 in the UEFA Champions League, raising questions about whether the South African champions could compete with the European giants in a potential FIFA Intercontinental Cup final later this year.

The French champions delivered an impressive performance at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday, scoring three goals in the first half through Désiré Doué, Ousmane Dembélé and Vitinha. Manchester City responded after the break when Erling Haaland found the net, but Maghnes Akliouche quickly restored PSG's three-goal advantage. Haaland scored again late in the match, although City could not prevent a convincing defeat.

The result has attracted attention among Sundowns supporters, with the Brazilians potentially facing PSG in December if they continue progressing through the FIFA Intercontinental Cup.

Sundowns recently secured qualification for the Challenger Cup after defeating Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli to win the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup. They are scheduled to face the winner of the Derby of the Americas on 28 November, with victory potentially setting up a meeting against PSG in the final.

Despite the challenge that could await his former club, ex-Sundowns defender Lovers Mohlala believes the South African side should approach the possibility of facing Europe's elite with confidence.

Mohlala argued that Sundowns had already demonstrated their ability to compete internationally during their participation in the FIFA Club World Cup. He also maintained that South African players should not be intimidated by European opposition.

According to the former defender, football remains unpredictable, and teams can achieve positive results when they minimise mistakes and take advantage of their opportunities.

However, Mohlala also cautioned supporters against celebrating a potential showdown before Sundowns have secured their place in the final.

He praised the Brazilians for defeating Al Ahli, describing their achievement as significant for South African football.

Sundowns continue to enjoy success domestically and on the African continent, but their immediate priority remains advancing through the Challenger Cup. Only then could the possibility of facing PSG become reality, giving the Brazilians an opportunity to test themselves against one of Europe's strongest teams.

Source:

https://x.com/KickOffMagazine/status/2110800512379420831