SHOCK AT LOFTUS! USM ALGER HUMILIATE MAMELODI SUNDOWNS TO LIFT CAF SUPER CUP

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 8 NOVEMBER 2026

Mamelodi Sundowns have suffered another disappointing evening in African football after losing 3-1 to USM Alger in the CAF Super Cup at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The South African champions entered the encounter determined to secure another continental trophy and give their supporters something to celebrate following their recent elimination from the CAF Champions League. However, the Algerian visitors produced an impressive performance to walk away with the prestigious silverware.

USM Alger wasted little time making their intentions clear, opening the scoring through Zakaria Draoui in the fourth minute after a dangerous attacking move created by Ahmed Khaldi.

Sundowns attempted to respond and eventually found their equaliser through Iqraam Rayners, who calmly converted a penalty following a Video Assistant Referee review for handball.

However, the home side's celebrations were short-lived as USM Alger regained their advantage through captain Saadi Radouani in the 37th minute.

The Algerian defender reacted quickest after an initial header struck the crossbar, sending his team into the half-time break with a 2-1 advantage.

The second half brought further frustration for Miguel Cardoso's men.

After a delay caused by heavy rainfall, USM Alger returned with determination and extended their lead through Ahmed Khaldi in the 55th minute.

The forward produced an outstanding individual effort, cutting inside before curling the ball beyond goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.

Sundowns tried to find a response through their attacking players, but the Algerian defence remained organised and disciplined throughout the closing stages.

The Brazilians also experienced injury setbacks, with Nuno Santos suffering an injury during the warm-up and striker Brayan León being forced off early in the match.

These disruptions made an already difficult afternoon even more challenging for Cardoso.

For USM Alger, the victory represents another major achievement, securing their second CAF Super Cup title after previously winning the competition in 2023.

For Sundowns, however, the defeat raises further questions about their recent performances in continental football.

Having already been eliminated from the Champions League by Angola's Wiliete SC, losing another important African trophy will undoubtedly disappoint the club's supporters.

Cardoso must now find a way to restore confidence and ensure his players remain focused on the remaining domestic competitions.

The defeat at Loftus is a painful reminder that reputation and possession alone are not enough to win trophies in African football.

Sundowns will have to respond on the pitch if they want to turn their difficult continental campaign around.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2119451763992383994