USM ALGER STUN SUNDOWNS TO CLAIM CAF SUPER CUP TITLE

Mamelodi Sundowns suffered a disappointing 3-1 defeat against Algerian outfit USM Alger in the 2026 CAF Super Cup final at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday, 8 November 2026.

The defeat saw Sundowns miss out on the opportunity to add another continental trophy to their cabinet, while USM Alger celebrated their second CAF Super Cup triumph.

The visitors made their intentions clear from the opening minutes, taking the lead just four minutes into the encounter through Zakaria Draoui, who finished off a well-worked attacking move initiated by Ahmed Khaldi.

Sundowns responded and were handed an opportunity to get back into the match when a VAR review resulted in a penalty for the South African champions. Iqraam Rayners stepped up and converted from the spot in the 25th minute to level matters at 1-1.

However, USM Alger regained the advantage in the 37th minute when captain Saadi Radouani capitalised on a defensive lapse following a corner kick to head home and put his side 2-1 ahead.

The Algerian side carried their advantage into the halftime break, leaving Sundowns with plenty of work to do in the second half.

Any hopes of a Sundowns comeback were dealt a major blow in the 55th minute when Khaldi produced a superb individual effort, cutting inside before unleashing a left-footed strike beyond the reach of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams to make it 3-1.

The match also experienced a delay of approximately 30 minutes at the start of the second half due to heavy rainfall.

Despite attempts by the Brazilians to fight their way back into the contest, USM Alger remained organised defensively and successfully protected their lead until the final whistle.

The result confirmed USM Alger as 2026 CAF Super Cup champions, adding another continental honour to their history after previously winning the competition in 2023.

For Sundowns, the defeat represents a missed opportunity to secure another major African title in front of their home supporters.

The final score was Mamelodi Sundowns 1-3 USM Alger.