Cardoso hails Sundowns’ historic victory over Al Ahli

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso said the team’s 2-1 victory over Al Ahli FC at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday afternoon would remain in the club’s history forever.

Two goals from Nuno Santos secured a landmark win for the Brazilians against the Saudi giants and sent Sundowns through to the Challenger Cup. Their next opponents have not yet been confirmed.

The result represents a significant moment for Mamelodi Sundowns and South African football, enhancing the club’s standing on the global stage. Cardoso dedicated the performance to late star midfielder Jayden Adams and injured defender Khuliso Mudau.

“In this moment, let’s look in the sky and embrace our brother Jayden Adams. It’s his soul today that gave us the strength and let’s remind Khuliso Mudau that’s also his injury. It’s important we respect the game, but we don’t respect no one,” Cardoso told SuperSport TV.

Cardoso had challenged his players before kick-off to compete for every ball and produce the determined performance that has become associated with Sundowns in recent years.

He said the occasion would remain with the players and everyone connected with the club for a long time.

“Don’t take me wrong, I mean respect what’s happening in the pitch, fight harder to have the ball, be humble for that but be proud to be yourselves. I said I want Sundowns on the pitch today and we had it. Thank you very much South Africa,” he said.

Cardoso also thanked the club’s supporters, chairman, players and Mr Flemming after the final whistle, describing the occasion as an important achievement for everyone involved.

“Thank you very much Mamelodi Sundowns, this one is for this beautiful people here, all of them, for our chairman, the players, Mr Flemming, beautiful moment,” he added.

The coach said the victory should be celebrated as a defining occasion in the club’s history.

“Let’s embrace also because it’s a beautiful moment today, it’s a big, big one this one that will stay in the history forever,” Cardoso said.