As Mamelodi Sundowns gear as much as face German giants Borussia Dortmund at TQL Stadium, head coach Miguel Cardoso has as soon as once more spoken with delight and function in regards to the membership’s journey to the 2025 FIFA Membership World Cup.
Following their historic 1–0 win over South Korea’s Ulsan Hyundai, the one victory by an African aspect to this point Cardoso used his pre-match press convention to mirror on what the second means for the membership and African soccer.
Iqraam Rayners’ aim within the tight Group F opener not solely sealed three factors but in addition introduced Sundowns’ intent on the world stage.
“We earned the proper to be right here,” Cardoso mentioned.
“And we’re proud to characterize our continent at this stage. It’s a pleasure to be a part of this match effectively organized, extremely aggressive and filled with alternative.”
Miguel Cardoso in a press convention room.
His message was clear, Sundowns didn’t come to make up the numbers. The Portuguese coach sees the Membership World Cup as each recognition of previous success and a launchpad for future progress.
“What we wish is to develop,” Cardoso added.
“Competing with the perfect pushes us ahead. The challenges assist us enhance.”
The win in opposition to Ulsan has already turned heads, however an even bigger problem awaits in Dortmund, a European powerhouse with pedigree and expectations.
Nonetheless, if Sundowns can match the idea of their coach with daring performances on the pitch, the African champions could also be writing extra historical past quickly.
Kickoff is about for at present, Saturday June 21, and all eyes will probably be on whether or not Sundowns can flip Cardoso’s imaginative and prescient into actuality since they’re at the moment high of the standings with 3 factors with Dortmund in second with 1 identical to Brazilian aspect Fluminise who lay third.
