Cardoso Praises Sundowns’ Effort Despite Elimination

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso expressed pride and admiration for his team’s performance in the FIFA Club World Cup, despite their elimination following a draw against Fluminense on Wednesday night at Hard Rock Stadium.

The draw marked the end of Sundowns’ campaign in the tournament, but Cardoso believes that the team’s journey has been a valuable experience.

“It’s a long journey. Today is not a happy day, but a very important one for us,” Cardoso said, acknowledging the significance of the tournament for the South African giants.

Cardoso highlighted the team’s impressive display, stating that they had played some of the most beautiful football in the competition so far, with statistics backing up their dominance.

“I’m so proud of my boys, the club I represent, and my staff,” he added, commending the team’s efforts throughout the tournament.

Sundowns finished third in Group F with four points, having beaten Ulsan 1-0, lost 4-3 to Borussia Dortmund, and drawn 0-0 against Fluminense.

Despite their elimination, Cardoso believes that the team’s performance will help change the perception of South African and African football.

“I just hope South Africans understand the work Mamelodi Sundowns put in. We are the biggest, even if we don’t always get the numbers or recognition we deserve on this stage,” he emphasized.

With their FIFA Club World Cup campaign now over, Sundowns will focus on their domestic and continental commitments next season, building on the momentum they’ve generated in this tournament.