Mamelodi Sundowns may have suffered a defeat at the hands of Borussia Dortmund in the Club World Cup, but head coach Miguel Cardoso insists his players earned something far more valuable than three points — global respect.
The South African champions took an early lead through Lucas Ribeiro in the 11th minute, momentarily shocking the German giants.
But despite their spirited start, Sundowns eventually fell short, unable to hold off a Dortmund side brimming with experience and attacking flair.
Yet Cardoso remained upbeat in the aftermath, choosing to spotlight the character and bravery shown by his squad rather than lament the result.
“We were there and showed that we weren’t afraid. We showed courage and pushed them to their limits,” the Portuguese coach told reporters. “Today, we earned the respect of the world. I heard that Dortmund will remember this match for a long time, and I think that’s absolutely magnificent.”
Cardoso’s words reflected pride not only in the performance but in the message it sent about African football on a global stage.
The Sundowns, often dominant domestically, rose to the occasion against one of Europe’s elite, demonstrating they could compete with the best.
While the scoreboard told one story, the experience gained told another — one that Cardoso believes will leave a lasting impact on his squad.
“The players had a hellish experience. You grow a lot with these kinds of matches,” he said. “We can compete.”
The match served as a testing ground for the Sundowns’ tactical and mental fortitude, and despite the outcome, there was little doubt that the team departed with enhanced confidence.
Facing a club with Dortmund’s pedigree was never going to be an easy challenge, but the Sundowns refused to be overawed.
Their performance was marked by fearless attacking phases, intelligent pressing, and moments of fluid passing — evidence of a team that, while not yet at the summit, is climbing with ambition.
As the Club World Cup progresses, Cardoso and his players will look to build on this display, knowing full well that their showing against Dortmund has shifted perceptions.
For the Sundowns, the tournament is no longer just about results; it’s about proving that they belong among football’s elite.
