Mamelodi Sundowns fly the African flag in today’s blockbuster FIFA Intercontinental Cup clash against Saudi Arabian giants Al Ahli.
The African champions welcome the Asian champions to Loftus Versfeld Stadium for what is effectively a single-legged ‘quarterfinal’ clash, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.
The winner from today’s clash will face the winner between the North American and South American champions clash in the ‘semi-finals’. Thereafter, the winner from that clash will face European champions Paris Saint-Germain in the final.
On top of qualifying for the next round, today’s winner will also lift the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup trophy.
Starting XI’s
Mamelodi Sundowns XI: Williams, Ndamane, Matuludi, Kekana, Morena, Modiba, Mokoena, Allende, Santos, Matthews, Leon.
Subs: Goss, Khoza, Basadien, Aubaas, Zwane, Cele, Sales, Van Wyk, Mvala, Ndlovu, Mailula, Rayners.
Al Ahli XI: Mendy, Baatia, Ibanez, Demiral, Hawsawi, Atangana, Al Johani, Spertsyan, Trincao, Al Brikan, Toney.
Subs: Alsanbi, Diaby, Bakor, Meshal, Galeno, Artem, Goncalves, Yousef, Balobaid, Hamed, Al Shamat, Masoud.
Williams wary of Al Ahli’s quality
Speaking before the clash, Mamelodi Sundowns captain Ronwen Williams admitted Masandawana are under no illusion regarding the formidable opponent that stands before them today.
“They are team with a lot of experience and high quality players and they score a lot of goals. It’s going to be a good game, we just need to prepare well. We look forward to this exciting and massive match,” he told the club’s media department.
Today’s encounter will be televised live on SuperSport 205 as well as SABC2.
Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images
