With Mamelodi Sundowns set to get their FIFA Club World Cup campaign underway by midnight South African time, a club legend has sent a message to Miguel Cardoso's men.
Sundowns kick off their Group F schedule against South Korean outfit Ulsan HD in the early hours of Wednesday, with the first whistle to be blown at midnight, SA time.
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Making their second appearance at the Club World Cup and being the first Mzansi side to play at the expanded tournament, former player Benson Mhlongo says he's proud of the group that will be hoisting the local flag at the global showpiece.
"I'm very proud of this group, they are putting the country on the map. I wish them well, to show the world that we can also compete in the world stage," Mhlongo told KickOff.com.
After Auckland City were humiliated 10-0 by Bayern Munich in their opening game of Group C, there were eyebrows and question marks raised on whether the New Zealanders deserved to be at the competition.
Sections of South African fans were quick to point out they are anticipating Sundowns' performance with keen interest, especially with another German side Borussia Dortmund in their group.
The Tshwane giants qualified for the 32-team event via the rankings path, which the rival supporters have questioned, as a way of mocking their participation - as previously, only champions of every confederation qualified.
Mhlongo, however, has reminded all and sundry that the Chloorkop-based side are one of the best teams on the continent and the best in the country for eight consecutive years anyway.
"It's a pity you can't control supporters in their views, the loyal supporters of (Orlando) Pirates, the loyal supporters of (Kaizer) Chiefs," he noted.
"Obviously they are not happy that Sundowns is the one representing us in the (Club) World Cup.
"Let's not undermine the people who are number two in Africa, 90 percent of the team played in the Afcon. So, we have the best team there.
"I see them doing well. As we speak, they are the best in our country, no doubt. For eight years, there's no better team than them," added Mhlongo.
Photo: Sayed Hassan/Getty Images
