Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso says his team is ready to fight for three points against Fluminense to secure a spot in the knockout stages of the FIFA Club World Cup.
Following the elimination of Al Ahly, Wydad, and Espérance, Sundowns remain Africa’s last hope at the tournament. The South African champions face Fluminense tonight at 9 PM CAT in a must-win encounter.
They will be coming from a 4-3 defeat to Dortmund following their 1-0 victory over Ulsan HD in their opening match in Group F.
Sundowns are currently in third place with three points, while Fluminense sit on four points alongside Borussia Dortmund, separated only by goal difference.
Speaking during a pre-match press conference, Cardoso expressed confidence in his squad’s readiness to deliver.
“We know what we are playing for, we know what is at stake, and we know what we want. We also know the level of our opponents that we are facing. ... And we will try to manage the game as much as possible the moment we have the ball, also to manage the rhythm of the game,” he said.
Cardoso also acknowledged the tough challenge that lies ahead.
“We expect a very competitive match, but at the same time I don’t expect a close game. I expect the teams to fight for a result because both teams will want to win. No one will want to fight for nothing, but we have to be very cautious.”
Meanwhile, Sundowns may be without striker Lebo Mothiba, who pulled a muscle in their match against Borussia Dortmund, the coach confirmed.
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