Al-Ahli goalkeeper Mendy credits team spirit for Auckland win, eyes Sundowns clash

Al-Ahli goalkeeper Edouard Mendy expressed his delight after the team’s victory over New Zealand’s Auckland City and their qualification to continue their Intercontinental Cup campaign.

Al-Ahli secured their place in the next round of the Intercontinental Cup after a narrow 1-0 win against Auckland City at Al-Inma Stadium in the first round of the tournament.

Speaking exclusively to Ajel, Mendy said: “We delivered a complete performance, managing the difficult conditions wisely, especially the hot weather, which made the match even tougher. However, the team’s character and vast experience helped us overcome these challenges and achieve our goal of qualifying.”

Looking ahead to facing African champions Mamelodi Sundowns, the Senegalese goalkeeper added: “It will be a completely different match against a unique opponent, and the conditions will be unfamiliar for us. Playing Sundowns on their home ground and in front of their fans will certainly be tough, but our only aim is to win and keep progressing in this tournament, making up for last season.”

This is Al-Ahli’s second appearance in the global competition, as they look to make amends for their disappointing previous outing, when they exited in the second round after a heavy 3-0 defeat to Egypt’s Pyramids—then African champions—with all goals scored by Congolese striker Fiston Mayele.