Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso says he is “proud” of his players despite his side’s early exit from the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup.
The South African heavyweights’ hopes of playing in the Round of 16 got dashed after drawing goalless in their final group game against Brazilian side, Fluminense at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida on Wednesday despite their dominance.
Speaking to the media after the match, Cardoso praised his players and coaching staff for their efforts throughout the tournament.
“We have that consciousness that we have been playing one of the most beautiful football in the competition. The story of this game is the goal we didn’t score in the first 20-25 minutes. We kept the intensity and the quality.’’
The Portuguese coach also expressed his pride in what the club has achieved on the global stage.
“I am so proud of my boys. I am so proud of the club I represent, and I hope that South African will understand the work Mamelodi Sundowns have done. We are the biggest maybe not the number one. The recognition that the club deserves is staged today, he said,” he added.
Mamelodi Sundowns finish third in Group F with four points.
Their campaign included a thrilling 4-3 loss to German side Borussia Dortmund, a narrow 1-0 win over South Korea’s Ulsan HD, and a draw against Fluminense.
