Mamelodi Sundowns Earn Praise from Nouadhibou Boss Despite CAF Champions League Defeat
Sundowns’ Dominance Recognized: Nouadhibou Boss Labels Them the Best in Africa
Following a decisive 3-0 loss to Mamelodi Sundowns in Tshwane, Nouadhibou boss Aritz Garai didn’t shy away from commending the South African side, acknowledging them as the best team in Africa.
The Mauritanian team faced Sundowns in their opening Champions League group stage match, experiencing firsthand the prowess of Rulani Mokwena’s squad, fresh from their African Football League triumph.
An Admiration for Sundowns: Garai’s Pre-Game Acknowledgment
Ahead of the match, Garai openly expressed his recognition of Sundowns’ standing in African football.
He stated, “I even said before the game that maybe at this point they are the best team in Africa.”
His comments highlight the respect Sundowns commands and the anticipation of a challenging encounter against a team he considers among the favorites for the Champions League title.
Sundowns’ Style and Fans: Garai’s Positive Observations
Garai went on to commend Sundowns for their style of play, both with and without the ball, emphasizing their pressing game.
He also praised the passionate fans and the vibrant atmosphere at the venue.
Despite the loss, Garai’s remarks reflect admiration for Sundowns’ coaching staff, playing philosophy, and the overall experience of facing a formidable opponent.
Nouadhibou’s Achievement: A Miracle in the Champions League
In addition to the match analysis, Garai acknowledged the significance of Nouadhibou’s journey to the group stages.
He described their qualification as a “big miracle” and highlighted the historic achievement of being the first Mauritanian team to compete in the Champions League.
Despite the challenges faced against a strong opponent like Sundowns, Garai sees the experience as a valuable learning opportunity for his players.
Learning Curve: Nouadhibou’s Adaptation to Higher-Level Competition
Garai acknowledged the difficulty of playing against opponents of Sundowns’ caliber, emphasizing the learning curve for his players.
He noted the difference in the strength of the South African league compared to their own and expressed optimism about an improved performance when playing at home.
The experience against Sundowns serves as a valuable lesson for Nouadhibou as they navigate unfamiliar territory in the Champions League.
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