Sundowns depart in style as Club World Cup beckons

MAMELODI Sundowns made a grand departure for the Fifa Club World Cup in the US at OR Tambo International Airport on yesterday afternoon. Sundowns' players were clad in new, colourful tracksuits specially designed for the tournament, while the technical teams wore sleek grey attire.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Head coach Miguel Cardoso stood out in a knitted hat featuring the South African flag a symbolic and impeccable choice from the Portugal-born manager. It reflected both the team’s and his readiness to carry the nation’s hopes on the global stage.

Sundowns have been a beacon of hope for South African sport, coming agonisingly close to lifting the CAF Champions League title just a week ago. However, their aspirations were dashed at the final hurdle, losing the second leg 2-1 to Pyramids in Cairo, and the tie 3-2 on aggregate.

The narrow defeat stunned the Yellow Nation, especially given that the club last won the continental crown nine years ago, despite dominating the domestic league for the past eight seasons.