Sundowns created opportunities, but a lack of cutting edge proved costly in a 2–1 defeat that puts their quarterfinal hopes under pressure.
Last updated: February 1, 2026
Quick Take
Mamelodi Sundowns paid for profligacy as they went down 2–1 to Al Hilal in Kigali, Rwanda, a neutral venue used because Al Hilal cannot host matches at home. Coach Miguel Cardoso believed his side did enough to get something — but admitted the finishing simply wasn’t there.
Key Points
- Sundowns lost 2–1 to Al Hilal in Kigali after failing to take key chances.
- The result leaves Sundowns on five points in Group C, with qualification no longer fully in their control.
- Cardoso said his team created multiple chances in both halves but lacked the decisive finish.
- Al Hilal’s physical threat up front and quick transitions caused Sundowns problems at key moments.
- Sundowns still have work to do: a difficult trip to the DR Congo and a home game against MC Alger remain.
A bright start, then a game that slipped into Al Hilal’s comfort zone
Sundowns arrived knowing the stakes were high and for a stretch, they played like it. Cardoso set his team up to exploit the space he expected to appear when Al Hilal pressed hard on one side. The idea was simple: move the ball quickly, switch play, and attack the opposite flank before the defence could reset.
For the opening 20 minutes, it looked promising. Sundowns created the kind of situations they’d prepared for, especially with runners trying to get in behind a higher defensive line than the one they faced in the earlier 2–2 draw back in Pretoria.
The control disappeared and the match opened up
The turning point wasn’t one moment, but a shift in rhythm. Sundowns started forcing early balls into space without the same structure behind the attack. That made them vulnerable. Al Hilal, happy to defend deep and spring forward in transition, found exactly the kind of game they wanted.
Cardoso later pointed to that instability as the phase that fed Al Hilal belief and made it harder for Sundowns to settle back into controlled possession.
“The story is simple”: chances missed, punishment received
The Sundowns coach didn’t hide from the main issue. In his view, the difference came down to missed opportunities at the moments that mattered. He spoke about several clear chances across both halves enough, he felt, to at least draw the match.
That’s the brutal logic of knockout-level football: if you don’t score when you’re on top, you invite trouble. And once Sundowns had to chase the game, it became open especially late on with Al Hilal’s physical forwards causing real discomfort in contact situations.
Fans may be surprised by how quickly these games turn. Miss two chances, take one risk, and suddenly you’re the team scrambling. This changes everything.
What it means for Group C
The defeat leaves Sundowns on five points in Group C, with qualification suddenly feeling fragile rather than routine. Their fate is not fully in their hands right now, and they need results elsewhere to keep their position stable in the short term.
The bigger picture, though, is still alive. Sundowns still have matches to play including a trip to the DR Congo and a home clash with MC Alger. But margins are tightening. Another off-night could be costly.
What to watch next
- Can Sundowns turn dominance into goals when the pressure rises?
- Will their away form improve in decisive CAF Champions League fixtures?
- How they handle transitions and physical duels against direct opponents.
FAQ
Where was Al Hilal vs Sundowns played?
The match was played in Kigali, Rwanda, a neutral venue because Al Hilal cannot host at home.
Why was Miguel Cardoso frustrated after the game?
He felt Sundowns created enough chances to at least draw, but they failed to convert key opportunities.
Is qualification still possible for Sundowns?
Yes. Their situation is tighter, but there are still group matches remaining and qualification remains within reach if they respond.