Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has insisted that Nigerian football remains strong, despite his side’s emphatic 7–1 aggregate win over Remo Stars in the CAF Champions League preliminary round.
Cardoso, whose team cruised into the group stage with a commanding performance over both legs, dismissed suggestions that the scoreline reflected a lack of quality from the Nigerian side. Instead, he commended Remo Stars’ fighting spirit and acknowledged the country’s rich footballing pedigree.
Read Also: Nigerian Youngster Chibueze Ozomena Seals First Professional Deal with Swedish Side Landskrona BoIS
“Nigeria exports so many talented players to Europe — that alone shows the level of quality they have,” Cardoso said. “We faced a good side in Remo Stars. They played with intensity and tried to compete until the very end.”
The Portuguese tactician also praised his own players for maintaining professionalism and focus throughout the tie, adding that advancing to the group stage was a reflection of hard work and consistency.
“I’m proud of my team. They executed our plan perfectly across both legs. It’s important to respect every opponent — football is about discipline, not complacency,” he added.
The victory means Sundowns continue their strong start to the continental campaign, as they aim to replicate or even surpass their 2016 CAF Champions League triumph.
