Downs Sink Asian Champs To Advance In Inter…

FIFA Intercontinental Cup
Teams: Mamelodi Sundowns v Al Ahli
Result: 2-1
Scorers Santos (18, 78′)

New signing Thabang Matuludi was thrown straight into starting line-up for his debut at right-back, while Nuno Santos and Aubrey Modiba were also recalled after the 1-1 draw against Chippa United last weekend.

Sundowns came out with their usual game of dominating possession in a rather pedestrian affair in the early stages, as the Saudi Pro League side were happy to deal with entries coming into the 18-yard area.

The hosts made their dominance count on 17 minutes via a dead-ball when Santos opened his account for the campaign by nodding home a cross from Teboho Mokoena.

However, Al Ahli hit back two minutes later when Ivan Toney broke free down the left flank before sending a cross into the box for Feras Al-Buraikan, who saw his shot deflect off Ronwen Williams into the back of the net for the own goal.

The rest of the second half belonged to Sundowns, although the Saudi outfit decided against pressing high up the field as the half went on.

Scroll through the gallery above to see action from the encounter.

The Saudi outfit were a lot more adventurous after the halftime as they had Sundowns pinned back into their own for the opening 10 minutes, but they were unable to carve a serious opening at Williams’ goal.

Sundowns should have restored their lead after 66 minutes when Modiba’s wonderful free-kick found an unmarked Ndamane in the box, however the defender blazed over the crossbar with an open goal at his mercy.

However, Miguel Cardoso’s charges got their reward with 12 minutes left on the clock when Santos completed his brace with another lovely cushioned header into the far corner.

The Saudi Pro League threw everything forward in search of the equaliser, but the African champions remained resolute at the back to see out the win and advance to the next round of the competition.

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