Sundowns’ global climb after Intercontinental Cup glory
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Sundowns’ global climb after Intercontinental Cup glory
Sep 22, 2026 – 02:20 pm
By Thato Bosoga
After Mamelodi Sundowns won the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup, the latest rankings have been published of clubs worldwide — and the Brazilians have made a significant leap.
Sundowns gave a high-quality performance to beat Asian champions Al Ahli 2-1 in the second round of the Intercontinental Cup at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday, lifting the African-Asian-Pacific Cup and progressing to the third round of the tournament — the Challenger Cup — where they will face the winner of the Derby of the Americas.
READ | What Next For Sundowns After Al Ahli Win? Brazilians’ Road To PSG
The Tshwane giants delivered a performance centred around the club’s ethos of ‘shoeshine and piano’, with quick, precise combination passes combined with the flair that has always been the hallmark of the Chloorkop-based side — giving the global audience a taste of what South African football has to offer.
Miguel Cardoso’s charges came into the encounter against Al Ahli already ranked number one in Africa after winning the CAF Champions League last season, and their latest triumph has only highlighted their standing among the clubs in the world.
Sundowns, following the weekly rankings by the FootballDatabase website, have climbed up to number 58 in the world — holding a higher position than established European sides such as West Ham United (63rd), Tottenham Hotspur (74th) and Ajax Amsterdam (90th).
The Brazilians’ superior showing over the Saudi Pro League outfit followed the script in terms of these rankings, as Al Ahli, who are ranked third in Saudi Arabia behind Al Hilal and Al Nassr, are occupying number 109 in the world. In spite of winning back-to-back AFC Champions League Elite titles, the Royals are also ranked third in Asia, behind their domestic rivals in the same order.
READ | Mshishi’s Golden Era: Zwane Celebrates 19 Trophies Across 14 Years At Sundowns
Sundowns are awaiting the winner from the Derby of the Americas, between 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup winners Toluca — who are ranked 80th in the world and number one in North America — and the winner of the 2026 Copa Libertadores, currently in the semi-final stage.
Fluminense v Palmeiras and Estudiantes v Flamengo are the semi-final fixtures in two-legged ties, with the eventual winner set to face Sundowns in the Challenger Cup.
The winner of the Challenger Cup will then face UEFA Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain in the final — a fixture that could elevate Sundowns even further up the global rankings.