Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso says even though they respect the game, they do not respect anyone after they put up a spirited performance to upset Asian champions Al Ahli Saudi SC.
Nuno Santos netted a brace as the African champions secured the 2026 FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup title after a 2-1 win over Al Ahli SC on Saturday afternoon at Loftus Versfeld.
For their success, Masandawana have also advanced to the Challenger Cup final and now await the winner between Toluca of Mexico and the CONMEBOL champions who are yet to be decided.
Speaking on SuperSport TV after the match, the Portuguese was quick to not let his statement be misconstrued talking about the respect of the game but not respecting opponents by fighting it out for positive results.
“Look, in this moment, let’s look at the sky and embrace our brother Jayden Adams,” he said.
“It is so great that today he gave us the extra strength.
“It’s important we respect the game, but we don’t respect no one. Don’t take me wrong.
“I mean playing, believing in us, respect what’s happening in the pitch, work hard when we had the ball, be humble for that but be pride and proud to be yourself.
“I told [the players] I want to see Sundowns on the pitch today and we had it.
“Thank you very much South Africa, thank you very much Mamelodi Sundowns.
“This one is for these beautiful people here, all of them. For our chairman, for the players, Mr Flemming [Berg].”
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