Mamelodi Sundowns not a walk in the park – Keanu Cupido

The former Cape Town City centre back finally got a break in a high stakes fixture when The Brazilians got their FIFA Club World Cup campaign underway against Ulsan HD in Orlando, Florida on Wednesday. 

A goal from striker Iqraam Rayners gave Sundowns the much-needed three points to help them set the tone and go top of Group F, which also includes Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense. 

Cupido helped the side keep a clean sheet, but he admits no one is guaranteed to play regularly under coach Miguel Cardoso. 

"It's not like a walk in the park at Sundowns, you need to work hard, you need to be ready, you need to be ready when they call you. I think I was ready when he [Miguel Cardoso] called me,” Cupido said.

“For me, I feel like it's been tough but I think God's timing is always perfect. So, I think today I took it with both hands and I felt proud of myself and also I think I have to give back to people that trusted in me. 

“I want to thank each and everyone, my wife as well, she's been very supportive. It's been tough not playing and today I feel like I made a lot of people proud and I'm grateful for the opportunity."

READ: Miguel Cardoso reacts to Africa’s first FIFA Club World Cup victory

The understanding between Cupido and Grant Kekana was crucial in keeping Ulsan attackers at bay at the Inter&Co Stadium. 

Cupido says he has formed a strong bond with every player in that position.

"We've been working together with me and Grant, it hasn't been everyday that me and Grant work together but I feel like we understand each other. We are similar in terms of play, we read the game as well,” he added.

“So, I think it's just a partnership that works and not only with Grant, I have partnerships with Mothobi [Mvala], with Mosa [Lebusa], I've been around and I've played with everyone of them. I feel like I can work with anyone."