**USM Alger stun Sundowns with 3-1 CAF Super Cup win**

USM Alger produced a major shock on Sunday, 8 November, beating Mamelodi Sundowns 3-1 at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria to win the 2026 CAF Super Cup. The Algerians punished defensive mistakes and finished their chances clinically, silencing the home crowd and denying the African champions another continental trophy.

The visitors struck after just four minutes. Ahmed Khaldi broke into the penalty area and sent a low pass across goal for Zakaria Draoui to score from close range. Sundowns were forced to chase the game, while injuries disrupted their plans, including the early loss of striker Brayan León.

His replacement, Iqraam Rayners, equalised in the 25th minute. Sundowns won a penalty after a VAR review for handball, and Rayners converted confidently. But the hosts could not build on that goal. In the 37th minute, Saadi Radouani reacted fastest after an effort from a corner hit the crossbar and headed in the rebound to restore USM Alger’s lead.

The Algerians increased their advantage ten minutes after the break. Khaldi cut inside and curled a superb shot beyond goalkeeper Ronwen Williams in the 55th minute. Sundowns pushed forward but struggled to penetrate an organised defence. Rain had also delayed the second-half restart, making a difficult afternoon even more challenging for the hosts.

Why the win stands out
The result gives USM Alger their second CAF Super Cup title, following their 2023 success. It is a major achievement because they defeated the Champions League holders on their home ground after qualifying as Confederation Cup winners. CAF noted that Confederation Cup champions have won four of the last five Super Cups, reflecting the growing strength of clubs across the continent. The victory also earned USM Alger USD 500,000 in prize money.

Sundowns fans turn their anger on Cardoso
The defeat provoked frustration among sections of the home support. Foot Africa reported that some fans chanted “Cardoso must go” as coach Miguel Cardoso approached the team bus after the match. Cardoso later admitted that Sundowns lacked their usual spark, pointing to injuries and costly errors. He also acknowledged that his players had failed to make enough of their opportunities.

For USM Alger, Pretoria will be remembered as the scene of a memorable continental triumph. For Sundowns, the defeat is a reminder that reputation and home advantage mean little without discipline and clinical finishing.