Thabo Nthethe optimistic about Mamelodi Sundowns’ MTN8 prospects
Thabo Nthethe is optimistic about Mamelodi Sundowns’ MTN8 prospects, highlighting their competitive edge from recent FIFA Club World Cup performances and confidence in coach Miguel Cardoso’s leadership. Picture: Lynne Gleeson/BackpagePix
Image: Picture: Lynne Gleeson/BackpagePix
There will be no hint of complacency from Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 after their FIFA Club World Cup exploits, believes former Brazilian player Thabo Nthethe.
Coming into the Club World Cup, the Betway Premiership champions were not expected to trouble some of the heavy hitters in the group.
Instead, Sundowns beat Ulsan HD in their first outing, competed strongly with Dortmund before going down 4-3, and finally drew with Fluminense, which saw them miss out on the knockout stages.
On Sunday, Sundowns welcome Richards Bay to Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium at 6pm, as their 2025/2026 campaign on local shores begins.
Sundowns’ Competitive Edge: Insights from Nthethe on Their Recent FIFA Club World exploits
“This game, I will give it to Sundowns. Why? Because not long ago, they were playing a very competitive tournament in the US, and I think the legs are still there, the desire is still there,” Nthethe told SportsBoom.co.za.
“I think the players still have the hunger, and also the coach, I think he’s still emphasising to the players that they need to start from the beginning because last season didn’t do well. They never even went to the final of the MTN 8. So, it’s one of the things that didn’t go well for them last season because they only won the league.”
Nthethe Supports Sundowns’ Faith In Miguel Cardoso
Nthethe, who spent four years with Sundowns from 2014 to 2018, was pleased to see Miguel Cardoso leading the side for the foreseeable future.
“I was happy with the decision that the team took to keep coach Miguel Cardoso. So, I foresee them winning this game as much as I want the small teams to do well. I foresee Sundowns progressing to the semi-finals.”