Thapelo Morena: Mamelodi Sundowns Will Give Everything Against Fluminense

Morena: Sundowns Ready to Fight for Club World Cup Survival

After falling just short in a thrilling seven-goal showdown with Borussia Dortmund, Mamelodi Sundowns are refusing to let their heads drop. For Thapelo Morena, that fiery encounter has only stoked the flames of belief ahead of their next challenge — a must-win clash with Fluminense.

“We’re Not Done Yet” Morena on Upcoming Fluminense Showdown

Speaking ahead of Wednesday’s decisive Group F fixture at the FIFA Club World Cup, the Sundowns utility man struck a hopeful tone.

“I think we’re going to give our all against Fluminense,” Morena told local media, fresh off a narrow 4-3 loss to the Bundesliga giants in Cincinnati. “We just need to take the lessons from Dortmund, fix our mistakes, and go in with the right mindset.”

And those lessons? They’re hard-earned. Downs started the tournament strong with a 1-0 victory over Ulsan from South Korea, but Dortmund was always going to be a different beast. Still, many neutrals were wowed by the South African champions’ fearless approach and ability to punch above their perceived weight.

“We came out swinging, because we knew any chance we gave Dortmund, they would take,” Morena said. “But we held our own, and that gives us confidence.”

Club World Cup Pressure Cooker

Now all eyes are on Sundowns’ final group game. A win against the Brazilian side is non-negotiable if they’re to book a spot in the knockout rounds — a feat no South African team has yet managed in the new format of the global showpiece.

“Fluminense are a top team, but we’ve done our homework,” said Morena. “We watched their games. We respect them, but we believe in our style and our preparation.” The pressure is high, but Morena believes the squad has the mental strength to rise again.

“In a tournament like this, the first game gives you momentum and the second helps you settle. Now, the third is where you make your mark.”

Public Reaction: South Africans Back the Brazilians

Back home, South African football fans have flooded social media with praise for the side’s effort against Dortmund. Many were proud, even in defeat, and urged the team to finish the group stage strong.

“Those boys made us proud,” wrote one X user. “We can beat Fluminense if we play like we did against Dortmund — just fix those defensive lapses!”

Another fan posted, “Sundowns are showing why they’re champions. All the best for Wednesday!”

A Shot at History

If they beat Fluminense, Sundowns could make Club World Cup history by progressing to the knockout phase. And with players like Morena rallying the squad, the dream is still alive.

“We’re going to give it everything,” he said. “This game determines everything for us — and we’re ready.”

Source:Sabc Sport

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