Mendy Labels Sundowns ‘Best Team I’ve Ever Played Against’
Al Ahli captain Edouard Mendy hailed Mamelodi Sundowns as the best team he has faced after their FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup clash at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.
The Brazilians secured a 2-1 victory, with Portuguese midfielder Nuno Santos scoring both goals as Miguel Cardoso’s side advanced to the next stage of the competition.
Santos opened the scoring in the 16th minute when he rose highest to head Sundowns into the lead, but Al Ahli responded just two minutes later when Ronwen Williams scored an own goal to bring the Saudi Arabian side level.
The match remained tightly contested, with both teams creating opportunities as they looked to secure their place in the next stage. Santos eventually produced the decisive moment in the closing stages, heading home his second goal of the night to hand Sundowns victory.
Despite the disappointment of the defeat, Mendy was impressed by Sundowns’ performance and their ability to compete at the highest level.
“A lot of disappointment. I think we played a great game, but it’s a final, and it’s about details, set pieces and focus. In front of goal, I think we could have killed the game in the first half,” he said on SuperSport TV.
“It is what it is. I’m proud of my team. I think we showed good character and our spirit here in South Africa against the best team in Africa, definitely. One of the best teams I have ever played against.
“They have top quality, but we came here and showed our quality in our football. It was 50-50, and it went on their side. Congratulations to them. We are going to rest and focus on the second phase of the season.”
Sundowns earned their place in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup after winning the CAF Champions League last season.
The Brazilians will now turn their attention to the next stage of the competition, where they will face the winner of the Derby of the Americas between Mexican club Toluca and the eventual Copa Libertadores winners in the FIFA Challenger Cup.
The upcoming clash will provide Cardoso’s side with another opportunity to test themselves against international opposition and further demonstrate the quality that impressed Mendy.
Sundowns have previously earned international recognition for their performances. At the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, they narrowly lost 4-3 to German giants Borussia Dortmund in an entertaining encounter, while Lucas Ribeiro’s goal in that match was voted the best goal of the tournament.
Their latest victory over Al Ahli has taken them another step forward on the international stage, with Mendy’s assessment adding further recognition to Sundowns’ growing reputation beyond the African continent.
