Cardoso reflects on heartbreak as Downs set sights on Club World Cup

MAMELODI Sundowns’ coach Miguel Cardoso was gracious in defeat after missing out on the CAF Champions League title, admitting that Pyramids had upped the ante.

- MIHLALI BALEKA.

Sundowns’ long wait to win a second continental crown continued on Sunday night in Cairo, as they lost 3-2 on aggregate in the final to Pyramids. The Pharaohs completed most of the job at home, at the 30 June Stadium, winning the second leg 2-1 on the night following a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Pretoria.

Coach Krunoslav Jurci¢’s players deserved the victory, as they were at their best from start to finish, capitalising on Sundowns’ mistakes in both goals. Grant Kekana made a poor clearance in his own box, allowing Fiston Mayele to pounce, before Ahmed Samy headed home from close range.

The Brazilians pulled one back with 15 minutes to go courtesy of Iqraam Rayners, but it proved to be a mere consolation, as the hosts lifted their first-ever continental title.