Mamelodi Sundowns legend adamant the Brazilians can reach the Club World Cup Last 16 if they ‘don’t give too much respect to their opponents’

There are mixed opinions circulating about whether Mamelodi Sundowns have the depth and quality to go the distance at the Fifa Club World Cup.

Former Kaizer Chiefs attacker Junior Khanye remains unconvinced that the South African champions can make a meaningful impact on the global stage.

In contrast, Sundowns legend Roger Feutmba believes that, given football’s unpredictable nature, the Brazilians are capable of putting up a strong fight and progressing to the Last 16.

"The game against the Korean side is the one which will set the tone for Sundowns at the Club World Cup. As much as we respect them I believe we can do well. If you look at the quality of players we have we can play at the same level with them,” Feutmba told Soccer Laduma’s Siya crew.

“As for the game against Dortmund, football is unpredictable and most of Sundowns' players could be playing in Europe. They may not be at the same level as Dortmund but they can give a good fight. Our players should just play their game and don't give too much respect to their opponents and in that way they can qualify for the Last 16,” he continued.

“With Fluminense we play almost the same kind of football. We like to play with the ball and that will be more interesting and with Brazilian players in our team it will be an open game which any team can win. I think we are in a good group which gives us the chance to qualify for the next round, " Feutmba concluded.

After falling short in their bid for Caf Champions League glory, coach Miguel Cardoso will be aiming to lead Sundowns to a strong showing at the Club World Cup.

They find themselves in Group F, where they’ll face off against heavyweights Ulsan HD, Borussia Dortmund and Fluminense.

Masandawana will kick off their campaign against the South Korean side on Wednesday, 18 June.

They’ll then face Borussia Dortmund on Saturday, 21 June, before wrapping up their group stage fixtures against Fluminense on Wednesday, 25 June.