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Sundowns defender Wayne Arendse admits that competing at the FIFA Club
World Cup is an accomplishment that he never dreamed was possible.
Arendse played an integral role in Sundowns' backline during their CAF Champions League triumph.
And the 32-year-old is looking forward to competing alongside some of the best players in the world, including Cristiano Ronaldo.
The Brazilians will open their account in the tournament against Japanese side Kashima Antlers at the Suita City Stadium on Sunday.
"To be honest with you, I never thought I'd be here in Japan or even winning the Champions League. When I wasn't playing regularly, my mind was only focused on making the team and contributing to its success," Arendse told his club's website.
"I was working very hard and consistently put my hand up until coach [Pitso] Mosimane noticed me. Evidently it has all paid off as today I’m here, I’ve won the league, cups and Champions League and today I’m playing in the same tournament as Real Madrid and Cristiano Ronaldo.
"This is the highlight of my career playing in the world cup and I just want to make the best of it."
Sundowns winger Khama Billiat said that the prestigious club competition offers the players a chance to showcase their talents in front of a global audience.
Mosimane will be hoping that his players give a good account of themselves in their opening fixture at the Suita City Stadium in Osaka with a place in the final likely to see them go up against the Spanish giants.
