Back
Egyptian football pundit Ahmed Shobeir has praised Mamelodi Sundowns, describing the South African giants as the biggest club in Africa at the moment and suggesting that they have taken over the position previously held by Egyptian powerhouse Al Ahly.
Shobeir believes Sundowns have established themselves as a major force in African football because of their organisation, discipline, quality players and clear playing philosophy. His comments are a significant compliment to the Pretoria-based club, which has continued to compete at the highest level on the continent.
According to Shobeir, Sundowns have built a team capable of challenging the strongest clubs in Africa. He highlighted the club's tactical approach and the influence of previous coaches, including Pitso Mosimane and Rulani Mokwena, in shaping its football identity.
The two coaches played important roles during different periods of Sundowns' development, helping establish a style based on possession, technical ability and coordinated attacking football. Their influence contributed to the club's reputation for playing an attractive brand of football.
Shobeir also compared Sundowns' current position with that of Al Ahly, who have enjoyed enormous success in African competitions over several decades. The Egyptian club has won multiple CAF Champions League titles and built a reputation as one of the continent's most successful sides.
However, Shobeir believes the balance of power has shifted towards Sundowns in recent years.
“Al Ahly were Africa's biggest superpower until two years ago. They have now handed the throne to Sundowns,” was the central message of his assessment.
His remarks are likely to generate debate among football supporters across the continent, particularly fans of Sundowns and Al Ahly. Both clubs have passionate supporters and impressive histories, making any discussion about Africa's biggest team a subject of strong opinions.
For Sundowns, such recognition reflects the growing attention they have received beyond South Africa. Their performances in continental competitions have helped strengthen their reputation, while their investment in players, coaching and infrastructure has supported their ambitions.
Nevertheless, determining Africa's biggest club depends on the criteria being considered. Continental trophies, historical achievements, financial strength, consistency and current performances can all influence the debate.
Al Ahly's record in African football remains an important part of the discussion, while Sundowns continue to pursue further success and recognition on the continent.
Shobeir's comments therefore add another chapter to the ongoing debate over which club currently holds the greatest influence in African football. While his assessment clearly favours Sundowns, the discussion between supporters of the two giants is unlikely to end anytime soon.
Source:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CM2Ynqtuk/