Sundowns can surprise them

Hola Soccer Laduma readers,

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On Mamelodi Sundowns' historic win

If you've been reading my column over the last few weeks, then you'll know I've been very clear - I backed Mamelodi Sundowns to go to the FIFA Club World Cup and represent not just themselves, but the entire country and the continent. And what a moment it was to see them do exactly that.

For me, the win against Ulsan HD FC wasn't just about three points. It was history in the making. They became the first African team to score a goal in this new Club World. Cup format, and then to go and get their first ever win at this level. Yoh, that's special. That's something those players will carry with them for life.

I always say that four points can take you out of any group and now they've got three already. But you don't want to leave it to chance, especially in a tournament of this magnitude. They've got one foot in the next round, but I'd love to see them go for it in the next match and push for another win, just to make sure. You don't come this far just to add numbers. You come to compete, and I believe Sundowns are doing exactly that.

People must remember that it's not easy to do what they've done. To prepare for a tournament like this, in between your domestic league, their CAF Champions League fixtures, your travel it's a lot. The logistics alone are crazy. But they've managed to focus and make the country proud.

Speaking of the Club World Cup

One story that really touched me this past week was about Auckland City's goalkeeper, Conor Tracey. You know, in the football world we talk so much about tactics, stats, trophies but we sometimes forget the people behind the stories.