Mamelodi Sundowns kicked off their FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Ulsan HD on Tuesday, and amidst the celebrations, head coach Miguel Cardoso addressed the spotlight on his decision to include captain Themba Zwane in the starting lineup.
The 35-year-old attacker, returning from an injury sustained in April, made his first start since then, a move that drew scrutiny from some fans given his recent lack of game time, particularly in the CAF Champions League final.
Read: Three Key Lessons for Mamelodi Sundowns from the Fluminense-Borussia Dortmund Stalemate
Rayners’ Decisive Goal Secures Opening Win
The crucial goal came in the 36th minute at the Inter & Co Stadium, courtesy of Iqraam Rayners, who was subsequently named Man of the Match.
Rayners’ performance was exceptional and could have bagged a hat-trick, if it weren’t for two correct off-side calls. While the Brazilians dominated possession early on, clear-cut chances were initially scarce.
Ulsan HD, however, showed significant improvement after the break, utilizing their pace effectively to push for an equalizer. They came agonizingly close, only to be denied by a spectacular goal-line clearance.
Ultimately, Sundowns secured a vital victory, setting a strong tone as they look ahead to their next formidable challenge against Borussia Dortmund this weekend
Cardoso Stands Firm on Selection Philosophy
Speaking after the match, Cardoso vehemently denied that his decision to start Zwane was influenced by external pressure.
“About Themba, there are no ghosts from the past at all, or on me, the pressures from inside the club, with the board, with my players,” Cardoso explained, highlighting the inherent pressures of a coaching career.
He emphasized that Zwane’s inclusion was based purely on his readiness and performance in training. “What happens is that Themba made a hell of two weeks of preparation, so that is the respect we need to have. People spoke a lot about that.”
Cardoso stressed that Zwane has been on a carefully managed recovery path: “It seems people didn’t understand he comes from a process of growth, since the moment he could enter the team and train, it’s important to give him the right opportunities so he can perform, and today was the right opportunity for him to play.”
The Portuguese mentor made it clear that he wasn’t deterred by potential criticism. “So, I had no problems putting him in, even having the risk of letting people think I’m putting him in because of pressure.”
He reiterated that his selections are based on merit and trust within the squad. “I made the decision consciously, without any kind of force, because I have such respect for my players that they know I don’t joke with them. We play fair, we trust, and we have a lot of values in our locker room that go beyond the question that was raised in the press.”
The win over Ulsan HD marks the first victory in Group F of the tournament for Mamelodi Sundowns, establishing their presence in the FIFA Club World Cup.
The South African champions will face Borussia Dortmund this Saturday, June 21, 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 18:00.