Mamelodi Sundowns striker Arthur Sales is brimming with confidence ahead of his side’s decisive FIFA Club World Cup clash against Brazilian giants Fluminense.
Sales believes the “new lessons” learned from their opening matches will be key to securing a historic qualification for the knockout rounds.
Read: African Dream Hinges on Mamelodi Sundowns’ Clash with Fluminense
Learning from the Best: Sundowns’ Journey So Far
Sundowns kicked off their tournament campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Korean side Ulsan HD, courtesy of an in-form Iqraam Rayners. Thereafter, it was their thrilling 4-3 defeat to German powerhouse Borussia Dortmund that truly captured global attention and instilled belief within the team that they can compete at the highest level.
Despite the praise, the Dortmund match highlighted some costly defensive lapses. Sundowns initially took an early lead through Lucas Ribeiro at the TQL Stadium. Yet, a loose pass from goalkeeper Ronwen Williams gifted Dortmund their opener, and the backline struggled under pressure, finding themselves trailing 4-1.
Nevertheless, The Brazilians displayed incredible resilience and attacking flair, clawing their way back into the game with late goals from Iqraam Rayners and substitute Lebo Mothiba, leaving Dortmund hanging on in the final minutes.
Exploiting Vulnerabilities: A Glimpse at Fluminense
While Fluminense currently top Group F with four points (ahead of Dortmund on goal difference, also on four, and Sundowns on three), they too have shown vulnerabilities. They trailed Ulsan 2-1 at halftime before ultimately surging back to win 4-2. This indicates that their defense is not impenetrable, offering a glimmer of hope for Sundowns.
Sales’ Optimism: “We Will Put the New Lessons to Use”
Speaking to IOL, Arthur Sales expressed immense pride in Sundowns’ achievements at the tournament so far. He emphasized the invaluable experience gained from playing against top-tier teams:
“Everyone is very proud. I think we learnt many things because when you play these big teams, you learn about different things. And we will put the new lessons to use for this next game against Fluminense.”
Sales anticipates an enthralling encounter, noting the shared philosophy of both teams: “It makes for an exciting match. We have good things for playing against them, and I think it is going to be a nice game because both teams like to play with possession. I think it will be a good game.”
He also acknowledged the quality across the Fluminense squad, recognizing that “everyone in the Fluminense team is a good player because they are at a good level to play for Fluminense in the World Cup.”
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, every pass, every tackle, and every moment could be the difference between heartbreak and history for Mamelodi Sundowns as they aim to extend their unforgettable Club World Cup journey.
Kick off against Fluminense is set for 21:00 SAST later today at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.