‘Different but inspiring’ — Nuno Santos on life in Africa’s elite competition

Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Nuno Santos is beginning to understand what African football truly demands, and the Portuguese playmaker admits the CAF Champions League has already reshaped his perspective of the game.

Santos arrived at Chloorkop at the start of the season from Vitória de Guimarães, stepping into unfamiliar territory after spending his career in Europe. 

Just months into his African journey, the 29-year-old has quickly left his mark on the continent’s premier club competition.

In 10 appearances across all competitions, Santos has scored three goals and provided two assists — all of them coming in the CAF Champions League. 

He opened his Sundowns account against Remo Stars before announcing himself emphatically with a brace against DR Congo side St Eloi Lupopo, moments that underlined his growing influence in Miguel Cardoso’s side.

Beyond the numbers, Santos says it is the intensity of the competition that has stood out most.

“Playing in Africa’s top competition is an incredible experience,” Santos said in Sundowns Magazine.

“The intensity, the atmosphere and the travel are completely different but also inspiring.”

For a player accustomed to the rhythm and predictability of European football, the Champions League has offered a sharp contrast. 

Matches are played in charged environments, often in hostile conditions, while travel across the continent can be long, demanding and unpredictable.

In Europe, quick flights and short distances are the norm. 

In Africa, Santos has had to adapt to extended journeys, recovery challenges and unfamiliar conditions — a reality that tests both body and mindset.

Yet it is precisely that challenge that has fuelled his motivation.

“To be part of a win that made history for the club was unbelievable,” he said. 

“When I scored that first goal, I thought about everyone who believed in me and that motivated me to want to do even more for this great club.”

Sundowns have long prided themselves on blending local excellence with international quality, and Santos’ seamless adaptation speaks to both his professionalism and the club’s structure. 

His goals have arrived at key moments, reinforcing Sundowns’ continental ambitions and underlining why the Brazilians moved swiftly to secure his services.

As the Champions League campaign deepens, Santos is no longer just adjusting — he is contributing with purpose. 

The travel may be tougher, the atmospheres louder and the margins finer, but the midfielder appears to be embracing every layer of the African football experience.

For Sundowns, that can only be good news as they continue their push for continental dominance.