Al Ahli goalkeeper Edouard Mendy has praised Mamelodi Sundowns after the South African side beat his team 2-1 in the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup.
Nuno Santos scored twice at Loftus Versfeld to hand Sundowns victory in a closely contested match on Saturday.
Mendy, who previously played for Chelsea, said Al Ahli had chances to take control of the game but were punished for failing to make the most of them.
“A lot of disappointment. I think we played a great match, but a final is decided by details, set pieces and concentration. Up front, I think we could have wrapped up the match in the first half. That’s how it is. I’m proud of my team.”
Despite the defeat, the Senegal international reserved special praise for Sundowns and described the South African champions as the best team on the continent.
“I think we showed character and commitment here in South Africa against the best team in Africa, that’s for sure. They’re one of the best teams I’ve ever faced,” Mendy said.
“They have a lot of quality, but we came here and showed our quality in our football.”
The result continued Sundowns’ strong run on the international stage, while Al Ahli were left to reflect on missed opportunities in a match decided by fine margins.
SOURCED FROM CAFONLINE.
