Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso dedicated the team’s CAF Champions League triumph to their loyal fans who kept believing and pushing the team through years of frustration.
The South African giants beat Moroccan side AS FAR 2-1 on aggregate to win their second title following a 1-1 draw in the second-leg encounter played at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, Morocco on Sunday.
Cardoso praised his players’ resilience after reaching his third straight final and highlighted the contribution of the travelling supporters in Rabat.
“I dedicate this trophy to the fans who kept believing in us. The fans who kept pushing us, they really deserve this trophy,” the 54-year-old Portuguese tactician said on CAF Online.
“It has been hard for my players and all the credit goes to them. I praise them for the work they have done. It has not been easy for them and for me.
“I want to thank the fans who have travelled here. They have been really great and we appreciate their presence and sacrifice. The boys understood the assignment. Matches like these have high emotions and the boys did very well.”
Cardoso is expected to remain at Sundowns, preparing for the new PSL season, CAF Super Cup and FIFA intercontinetal Cup.
Key Bafana stars like Ronwen Williams and Teboho Mokoena will join national duty for the 29 May friendly against Nicaragua before South Africa’s World Cup opener against Mexico on 11 June.
