Mosimane’s legendary journey comes full circle as his former clubs Sundowns and Al Ahli clash

Pitso Mosimane’s illustrious club career will take centre stage when two of the teams he helped shape – Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahli – meet in the FIFA Africa-Asia-Pacific Cup final in Pretoria on Saturday (3pm)

Sundowns will host Ahli with the winner lifting the trophy and advancing to the Challenger Cup, where a victory would set up an Intercontinental final clash against UEFA Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain.

The showdown brings together the reigning champions of the CAF Champions League (Sundowns) and the AFC Champions League (Al Ahli), with the Saudi side having advanced after defeating Oceania champions Auckland City.

Mosimane played an instrumental role in the growth and success of both clubs, most notably securing five league titles and a maiden continental crown during his sucessful tenure with the Brazilians.

He is also fondly remembered in Saudi Arabia, having guided Al Ahli back to the Saudi Pro League in May 2023 following a successful spell with African giants Al Ahly.

As the two former clubs collide – coming shortly after Mosimane's appointment as Bafana Bafana coach – he reflected on what the high-profile fixture at Loftus Versfeld means to him.

“It will be very emotional for me,” said Mosimane, speaking after announcing his squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea on September 26 and Eritrea on September 30, alongside an international friendly against Egypt on October 4 .

“I won trophies on that side, and this side. The names and the level are up there. The other ones won the Champions League for the second time in a row now. And this one has just won it.”

“I am happy that I have contributed somewhere a little bit. It’s humbling to see the two teams. They both won the Champions League.”

While both clubs hold a special place in his heart, Mosimane tipped Sundowns to have the upper hand, noting their strong domestic form, a place in the MTN8 final, and a stable, retaining core from last season’s continental triumph.

In contrast, Mosimane pointed out that Al Ahli are navigating a transitional period following high-profile departures.

“Al Ahli is not at a good level at the moment. Riyad Mahrez left. Roberto Firmino left. They don't have a stable team, though they still have England international Ivan Toney,” he said.

“They are not in a good space in terms of injuries. I think Sundowns have an advantage. The Yellows have an advantage over the Greens, but football is football. It will be good to see the boys again, and the management. Good history, right?”