Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso says he is "proud" of his team despite their early exit from the FIFA Club World Cup.

The South African champions’ hopes of reaching the Round of 16 were dashed following a goalless draw against Brazilian giants Fluminense at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida.

Sundowns dominated much of the game, registering 60% possession, seven shots, and three on target while Fluminense failed to register a single shot on goal.

Speaking to the media after the match, Cardoso praised his players and coaching staff for their efforts throughout the tournament.

 ‘’We have that consciousness that we have been playing one of the most beautiful football in the competition. The story of this game is the goal we didn’t score in the first 20-25 minutes. We kept the intensity and the quality.’’ 

The Portuguese coach also expressed his pride in what the club has achieved on the global stage.

‘'I am so proud of my boys. I am so proud of the club I represent, and I hope that South African will understand the work Mamelodi Sundowns have done. We are the biggest maybe not the number one. The recognition that the club deserves is staged today, he said.''

Mamelodi Sundowns finish third in Group F with four points.

Their campaign included a thrilling 4-3 loss to German side Borussia Dortmund, a narrow 1-0 win over South Korea’s Ulsan HD, and the draw against Fluminense.