Nuno Santos’ World Cup Wishes for Portugal

Author: Erica Mathye

When Nuno Santos arrived in September 2025, few could have predicted just how quickly he would settle into life at Mamelodi Sundowns.

Months later, the Portuguese midfield maestro has made an impactful presence in the heart of the Brazilians’ midfield, admired for his flair, intelligence and composure. Signed to add creativity and attacking spark, Santos has delivered exactly that, seamlessly adapting to Sundowns’ dynamic style of play and winning over the Yellow Nation.

But it was on the continental stage where he truly announced himself. In a gripping CAF Champions League group stage clash against DR Congo’s FC Saint-Éloi Lupopo in November, Santos delivered a performance that lit up the competition—scoring twice and providing an assist in a commanding display that underlined his quality and experience on the big stage.

Before arriving in South Africa, Santos was shaped in some of Europe’s finest footballing environments. A product of the FC Porto and SL Benfica academies, he rose through Portugal’s youth national teams from Under-16 to Under-21 level alongside several of today’s global stars.

In 2018, he played a key role in Portugal’s UEFA European Under-19 Championship triumph alongside Domingos Quina, Francisco Trincão and Florentino Luís, while also progressing alongside players like Diogo Costa, Diogo Dalot, Pedro Neto, Rafael Leão, Vitinha and João Félix.

Now, after seven months of success in South Africa, Santos has added his first piece of silverware with Mamelodi Sundowns—lifting the CAF Champions League title in a season that confirmed his impact on the continent. With the campaign concluded, the Portuguese playmaker will now return home for a well-earned off-season break with family.

“I cannot wait to see my family and friends whom I have not seen in a very long time. One of the things I value most about this off-season is the opportunity to go home and spend quality time with them, as well as my dog, Edu (German Shepherd breed). Hopefully, next season, he can join us in South Africa,” he said with a smile.

While attention turns to international duty ahead of the FIFA World Cup, Santos will also be following the tournament closely—particularly Portugal’s campaign.
“Obviously, I am very happy for those who have made it into the team to represent the country at the World Cup. Some were teammates at the academies. It has been a privilege to share the pitch with them,” he reflected.

And when it comes to predictions, his belief is clear. “Of course, I would like them (Portugal) to win this World Cup. That is what we are missing. We have won the Euros and the Nations League—the World Cup is the one that has eluded us. I think we have a strong team, and this might just be the squad to do it.”

From Europe’s elite academies to CAF Champions League nights in Sundowns colours, Nuno Santos’ journey is one defined by pedigree, performance and passion—and in just a short time at Chloorkop, he has already written an exciting new chapter in Masandawana colours.

With an eye on the upcoming season following the FIFA Club World Cup, Nuno said: “We will compete for all the trophies next season. Missing out on the Betway Premiership was disappointing, but winning the CAF Champions League is a major achievement and we can all be proud of what we have accomplished.

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