Mamelodi Sundowns Earn Global Praise Despite Early Exit from FIFA Club World Cup

Mamelodi Sundowns may have bowed out at the group stage of the FIFA Club World Cup, but the Tshwane giants have left an indelible mark on the international football stage, earning widespread praise for their courageous performances against some of the world’s top-ranked clubs.

Drawn into a tough group that included teams from three different continents, Sundowns were always going to face a difficult challenge. Their opponents all ranked above them in FIFA’s official competition index, but the South African champions held their own, showing quality and determination throughout their campaign.

The Brazilians kicked off their Club World Cup journey with a convincing win over Asian giants Ulsan HD, proving their readiness for the global stage. They then faced Bundesliga powerhouse Borussia Dortmund, putting up a spirited fight that showcased their tactical discipline and technical skill. Sundowns concluded their run with a brave display against Fluminense, the 2023 South American champions, earning them respect from fans and football pundits alike.

Among the many voices applauding Sundowns is Ricardo Nascimento, the longest-serving Brazilian player at the club during the PSL era. Speaking to KickOff.com, Nascimento expressed pride in the team’s performance.

“I think Sundowns played very well throughout the competition and not just in this one game against Fluminense,” he said. “Sundowns have now shown the world that South Africa has a good team. They have shown the world that they have very good players.”

From Sao Paulo, former Bidvest Wits striker Pepe de Jesus echoed the sentiment, reflecting the pride felt among Brazilian football circles.

“Sundowns have now shown the world what we have always been telling people here in Brazil about South African football,” de Jesus said. “I have been following the Club World Cup and rooting for Sundowns.”

Igor Alves, a former Moroka Swallows midfielder who is currently with Flamengo at the tournament, was also full of praise.

“Congratulations to Mamelodi Sundowns. They had a great campaign and missed out on advancing by just a few details,” Alves remarked. “I have been following them and knew what they were capable of because I played in South Africa, but for the rest of the world, it was a pleasant surprise. It is great to see African football gaining strength, especially South African football.”

Adding to the chorus of support, Freitas Camilo, a Brazilian who once had a stint with Orlando Pirates, believes Sundowns could easily compete at the highest level in Brazil.

“For me, it might pleasantly surprise other people around the world, but Sundowns can even play in the Brazilian Serie A, case closed,” Camilo said.

Though their journey in the tournament may have ended sooner than hoped, Mamelodi Sundowns have returned home with their heads held high, having won new fans globally and proven that South African football deserves a place on the world stage.