{
  "id": 8246012,
  "title": "Sundowns won't be intimidated by big-money Al Ahli, says Miguel Cardoso",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/sundowns-wont-be-intimidated-by-big-money-al-ahli-says-miguel-cardoso",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-18T12:45:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/sport/soccer/psl/2026-09-18-sundowns-wont-be-intimidated-by-big-money-al-ahli-says-miguel-cardoso/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso is confident his team will not be intimidated by their opponents, Al Ahli, despite the high-profile players and substantial resources of the Saudi Arabian side. The two teams will face off in the second round of the Intercontinental competition at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, following Sundowns' victory in the CAF Champions League and Al Ahli's triumph in the AFC Champions League last season. Cardoso noted that Sundowns are motivated by the support of their fans and their unbeaten run in all competitions since the start of the season, but he emphasized that Al Ahli's financial advantages do not necessarily guarantee success. He stated, \"We should expect a match that we will dictate according to the level of our performance. We need to be top of the top. Al Ahli is a powerhouse, but budget doesn't play.\" The coach highlighted the importance of both teams' effort and quality of play in determining the outcome, and he advised his players to maintain a high level of focus. He also acknowledged the significance of this match for Sundowns, as competing in this tournament brings immense pride to the club, as they worked hard to win the Champions League to reach this stage.",
  "summary": "Undefeated Mamelodi Sundowns face Al Ahli in the Intercontinental Cup. Coach Cardoso insists budget and star players won't intimidate his confident, fully focused squad.",
  "key_points": [
    "Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso confident team won't be intimidated by Al Ahli.",
    "Sundowns motivated by fan support and unbeaten run since season start.",
    "Al Ahli's financial advantages don't guarantee success, Cardoso emphasizes."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}