Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has issued a bold statement about Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense, their upcoming opponents in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup group stages.
Masandawana kicked off their FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a 1-0 victory over Ulsan HD in midweek. This crucial win earned them three points, immediately propelling them to the summit of their group after Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense played out a goalless draw.
The Tshwane giants are now set for a blockbuster clash against the Bundesliga powerhouse, Dortmund, on Saturday, 21 June at 6 PM at TQL Stadium.
Cardoso’s troops will wrap up their group stage matches with a highly anticipated showdown against Brazilian giants Fluminense, with the encounter scheduled for Wednesday, 25 June at 9 PM at the Hard Rock Stadium.
The Portuguese coach commended his side for their win against Ulsan HD, a team he acknowledged as one of Asia’s best. He said that his side is ready to fight again in their upcoming fixtures to advance from the group stage.
Cardoso expressed confidence stemming from his deeper knowledge of their next formidable opponents, Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense.
CARDOSO ON HIS DEEPER KNOWLEDGE OF DORTMUND AND FLUMINENSE
“Having won the first match, we have the objectives. That means we have to fight for the position we are in, we have the chance [to go through to the next stage],” said Cardoso.
“We know what we have ahead, I probably know much better than others. I know very well what Borussia Dortmund is, I’m European, so I know them much better.
“I know Fluminense because I’ve been travelling to Brazil to watch football for a long time. So, I know the level where Brazil is in football. There’s been a lot of improvement in their football in the last ten years.
“We beat the strong team from Asia, and now we have the opportunity of fighting against one of the strongest in Europe and one of the strongest in Brazil.”
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