Miguel Cardoso hails 'incredibly supportive' Sundowns chairman Thlopie Motsepe

The Sundowns coach highlighted the strong working bond he shares with Sporting Director Flemming Berg, stressing that their collaboration is built on transparency, respect and confidence in one another.

In a sport where the relationship between a head coach and a sporting director can frequently be strained by conflicting objectives, personal ambitions and strong personalities, Cardoso suggested the partnership at Chloorkop has remained united and constructive.

He also reserved praise for club chairman Thlopie Motsepe, describing him as a valuable source of support during some of the most demanding moments of Sundowns' continental campaign.

Cardoso indicated that Motsepe's ability to understand and manage the emotional demands of elite competition proved particularly important when pressure levels were at their highest.

"The chairman was incredibly supportive and present in many moments," he said via Mamelodi Sundowns Magazine.

"In some moments, he took over the room, especially after the match in Rwanda against Al Hilal.

"Football is not only tactical but also emotional. He created an environment that helped us manage our emotions and stay united. Success comes from support, from the small messages from the president, the Motsepe family and our own families."

The comments come at a significant moment for the club. While Sundowns ended a lengthy wait for continental glory by securing their second CAF Champions League crown and their first since 2016, they also experienced an unusual setback on the domestic front.

For the first time in nine years, the Pretoria giants were unable to claim the league championship, ending one of the most dominant periods in South African football history.