An emotional Miguel Cardoso paid glowing tribute to the loyal Mamelodi Sundowns supporters after guiding the South African giants to their second CAF Champions League title following victory over AS FAR in Rabat on Sunday.
Mameldoi Sundowns were crowned African champions after a hard fought 2-1 aggregate triumph over the Moroccan side, finally ending years of disappointment both for the club and for Cardoso personally.
The success carried special meaning for the Portuguese coach, who had suffered painful defeats in his previous two CAF Champions League finals.
Miguel Cardoso had first fallen short while managing Espérance de Tunis against Al Ahly two seasons ago before another heartbreaking loss arrived last season when Sundowns were beaten by Pyramids FC.
However, on Sunday night in Rabat, the long wait for continental glory was finally brought to an end as Sundowns held firm to secure one of the biggest victories in the club’s history.
Moments after the final whistle, Miguel Cardoso struggled to hide his emotions as he dedicated the trophy to the supporters who continued to stand behind the team throughout a difficult and demanding campaign.
“I dedicate this trophy to the fans who kept believing in us. The fans who kept pushing us, they really deserve this trophy,” Cardoso said.
“It has been hard for my players and all the credit goes to them. I praise them for the work they have done. It has not been easy for them and for me.”
Special appreciation was also reserved for the travelling supporters who made the journey to Morocco to cheer the team on during the decisive second leg.
The Sundowns coach admitted their presence played an important role on a night filled with pressure and emotions.
“I want to thank the fans who have travelled here. They have been really great and we appreciate their presence and sacrifice. The boys understood the assignment. Matches like these have high emotions and the boys did very well,” he added.
The triumph marks a major milestone in Cardoso’s coaching career after years of near misses on the continental stage.
For Sundowns, meanwhile, another CAF Champions League crown has further strengthened their status among Africa’s elite clubs and rewarded the patience of a fanbase that continued believing through every setback.
