From exile to hero: Nuno Santos delivers stunning Mamelodi Sundowns response

Mamelodi Sundowns' coach Miguel Cardoso commended Nuno Santos for his match-winning performance against Al Ahli Jeddah, following a difficult period away from the team. The Portuguese midfielder, who had been left out of the Sundowns squad amid uncertainty about his future, returned to the starting XI and scored both goals as Sundowns secured a 2-1 victory in the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup 2026.

Santos was also awarded Player of the Match for his decisive performance. Cardoso explained that the decision to restore Santos to the starting XI was based on several conversations between the two, as well as a noticeable shift in the player's mindset. "Nuno had his moment, it was not an easy moment and it’s not important to speak about it today," Cardoso said.

"What is important is that he has a smile on his face today." The coach also noted that Santos had made a commitment to put Sundowns' needs ahead of his own situation. That commitment was rewarded as Santos delivered a performance that secured another international trophy for Sundowns and offered a strong response to a difficult period.