Cardoso Reacts to CAF Final Loss: "We’ll Rise Again, Stronger Than Ever"

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso's urged his players and supporters to stay proud and optimistic after their 3 - 2 aggregate loss to Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions league final.

Despite dominating spells over the two legs, Sundowns fell short in their quest for second continental crown with Egyptian side Pyramids claiming their first CAF Champions league title in Cairo.

Cardoso: "Not Happy, But Proud"

Speaking after the match, Cardoso expressed mixed emotions describing the loss as "bitter" but emphasizing his pride in his squad's journey:

“We’re not happy, of course, but that doesn’t mean I’m not proud of everything we’ve achieved up to the final. To guide this team through a difficult group, then beat Al Ahly and Esperance, shows our growth.”

The Portuguese coach highlighted how Sundowns navigated a brutal path, including wins over Africa’s top-ranked clubs, Al Ahly and Esperance, to reach their first CAF final since 2016.

Pyramids Prove Too Clinical

The decisive second leg saw goals from Fiston Mayele and Ahmed Samy sink the South Africans, despite a reply from Iqraam Rayners. Sundowns’ missed chances and defensive lapses across both legs cost them dearly.

Cardoso, who also lost the 2023 final with Esperance, admitted:

“In key moments, we didn’t find a way to compete at the level required. And when there’s a winner, it means they were better in those moments.”

Focus Shifts to the Future

Cardoso remained upbeat, praising his players’ character and hinting at future redemption:

“We’ll get up, we’ll come back. We have a strong group of men who are hurting now but will rise like true champions. We’ll return, smarter and stronger.”

The Bigger Picture for Sundowns

Though the loss stings, Sundowns' campaign has been one of progress:

• First CAF Champions League final in 8 years
• Knocked out the two top-ranked CAF teams
• Built consistency under Cardoso’s leadership

As the Betway Premiership champions, the club now turns its focus to domestic dominance and preparing for future continental glory.

Final Thought

While Pyramids celebrate a historic win, Cardoso's message is clear: this is not the end—it’s a new beginning for a Sundowns side that proved they belong at Africa’s highest level.