How Sundowns’ global exploits fuel Cardoso’s Bafana belief

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso believes Bafana Bafana have already proven they can go toe-to-toe with the world’s elite, citing the Brazilians’ recent historic exploits at the FIFA Club World Cup as the ultimate blueprint for success.

As South Africa prepares for a high-stakes 2026 FIFA World Cup Group A against hosts Mexico, South Korea, and the Czech Republic, Cardoso insists that the “fear factor” regarding international heavyweights should be a thing of the past.

The Sundowns Blueprint

The Portuguese tactician’s confidence stems from Sundowns’ performances in the USA last year. Despite a group-stage exit, the Brazilians earned global respect by defeating Ulsan HD FC 1-0 and holding South American giants Fluminense to a goalless draw. Their journey ended in a heart-wrenching 4-3 thriller against Borussia Dortmund, a game that proved South African-based players could handle the intensity of top-tier European and Brazilian opposition.

Cardoso, who provides the core of Hugo Broos’ squad with stars like Ronwen Williams, Teboho Mokoena, and Khuliso Mudau, says the respect his side earned in the USA should translate to the national team.

“When we prepared for the Club World Cup, everyone asked what we were capable of. I think we showed that South Africa has the quality to perform in such high-level competitions,” said Cardoso.

“The way Fluminense settled down and showed us respect demonstrates that we belonged there. I say the same about Bafana Bafana.”

With the World Cup kicking off on June 11, Cardoso believes the mental approach to the opening fixture will be the deciding factor for South Africa. He highlighted that Sundowns’ early win against Ulsan HD was the catalyst for their confidence, a lesson Broos’ men must take into their clash with Mexico.

“The details matter. The first match is crucial; it relieves the big pressure. It is important that South Africans support the boys without putting unnecessary weight on them. The group is not easy, but it is not impossible,” he added.

Full Backing for Hugo Broos

Despite the tactical demands of the Betway Premiership title race, Cardoso remains a staunch ally of the Bafana Bafana technical team. As the “heartbeat” of the national side continues to be honed at Chloorkop, the Sundowns mentor has offered a “no-strings-attached” support system to the Belgian head coach.

“From my part, Hugo Broos has all the support he may need. He knows we support him fully. It would be beautiful to see South Africa represent over there and show the quality football the people appreciate.”