Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso alert to the challenge of limited possession

Mamelodi Sundowns, the formidable force of South African football, are set to take on an entirely different battlefield at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.

As they prepare to represent Africa, head coach Miguel Cardoso has issued a crucial advisory: the team must adapt to having less possession than they are accustomed to.

“We are excited as a team, and we are excited that we are going to represent Africa as a whole," said Cardoso, reflecting on the pride and anticipation that comes with this prestigious tournament.

Once used to dominating possession in the South African league, where they often control the ball upwards of 70 per cent, Sundowns now face a daunting task in Group F.

They find themselves as underdogs against Brazilian giants Fluminense and the highly competitive Borussia Dortmund, who are expected to progress to the knockout stages, alongside South Korean heavyweights Ulsan Hyundai.

Cardoso emphasised the drastic change in approach required.

“Now we must prepare mentally to adapt to situations where our opponents will have most of the possession. I doubt we will be able to control games like we regularly do in South Africa,” he explained, highlighting the tactical shift his players must undertake.

Sundowns' new adversaries present unique challenges; Cardoso identifies Dortmund as offering a test not typically seen in the South African league.

“Dortmund play a very high tempo, aggressive style, which is typical of German football,” the Portuguese coach noted, drawing from his extensive experience across European football.

Having first moved to Africa in 2024, Cardoso has already made his mark by winning the Tunisian league with Esperance and leading them to the CAF Champions League final, showcasing his credentials ahead of this high-profile clash.

As one of only four African clubs at the revamped 32-team Club World Cup, Sundowns’ journey will not only include matches against Europe and Asia’s elite but also serve as a platform to challenge the long-held stereotype of African football lacking organisation and defensive organisation.

“The belief that African clubs lack organisation, especially in defence, is untrue,” he asserted, yet admitted that defensive mistakes led to their downfall in the CAF Champions League final against Pyramids FC, costing them a chance for glory.

With a diverse squad composed of 20 South Africans, alongside players from Brazil, Chile, Uganda, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, Sundowns are hunting for synergy as they head into this prestigious tournament.

The oldest member, reserve goalkeeper Denis Onyango, at the age of 40, provides wisdom to a squad that includes exciting young talent, 19-year-old Kutlwano Letlhaku.

Notably, first-choice goalkeeper Ronwen Williams has already proven his mettle, having saved four penalties in a recent Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final shootout against Cape Verde.

Alongside him, players such as Khuliso Mudau, Mothobi Mvala, Teboho Mokoena, and Golden Boot winner Lucas Ribeiro promise to bolster the team's attacking prowess.

Yet, eyes will particularly be set on the experienced Themba Zwane, who has previously made crucial contributions to his team's dynamics.

As Sundowns gear up for their inaugural match at the Club World Cup, the overriding sentiment within the camp is one of determination and resilience.

With the stakes higher than ever, the team aims to perform for themselves and Africa, looking to rewrite perceptions and carve a proud legacy on the world stage.