Miguel Cardoso Salutes Mamelodi Sundowns’ Grit After CAF Final Loss

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has expressed pride and optimism following his team’s narrow defeat to Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League final on Sunday evening in Cairo.

Despite a 2-1 loss on the night—and a 3-2 aggregate defeat over two legs—Cardoso was full of admiration for his side’s remarkable journey in the continent’s premier club competition.

Mamelodi Sundowns Fall Just Short in Egypt

After a 1-1 draw in Pretoria, the Tshwane giants faced a tall order in the return leg in Cairo. The challenge intensified when Pyramids FC took the lead through Fiston Mayele in the opening 25 minutes. The Egyptian side doubled their advantage shortly after the hour mark thanks to a strike from Ahmed Samy.

Sundowns showed resilience as Iqraam Rayners gave the visitors hope with a goal in the 75th minute. However, it wasn’t enough to overturn the deficit, with the away goal rule falling short of granting the Brazilians continental glory.

A Journey Worth Remembering

Reflecting on the campaign, Miguel Cardoso highlighted the calibre of opponents his team overcame to reach the final.

“We eliminated Al Ahly, who remain the top-ranked club in Africa, and beat Esperance, who are second. These are no small achievements,” he stated.

He further emphasised the team’s progress since his arrival. “When I joined the club, there was still a challenge getting past the group stages. We faced a difficult group that included Raja Casablanca and AS FAR, yet we made it through. That speaks volumes about how far this team has come.”

Consistency Across All Fronts

It has been a season of success domestically, with Sundowns clinching their eighth consecutive league title. This sustained dominance, paired with their deep run in the Champions League, is something Cardoso sees as a major positive.

“The level of discipline, effort, and skill our players displayed throughout the tournament has been exceptional. Reaching the final is not something to overlook, and it fills me with pride,” he said.

Miguel Cardoso – “These Players Will Rise Again”

Although visibly disappointed with the final result, Cardoso expressed confidence in his squad’s resilience and character. “Losing a final hurts. It’s deeply disappointing. But I have a dressing room full of exceptional men. Right now, they are heartbroken, but they will rise again. That’s what true champions do.”

The defeat may sting, but the message from Cardoso is clear: Sundowns are on the right path. The club’s achievements this season both domestically and continentally have laid a strong foundation for future glory. With Cardoso at the helm and a squad full of talent and resolve, the dream of conquering Africa remains very much alive.

Also read: Pyramids FC Crowned Kings of Africa After Downing Mighty Mamelodi Sundowns