MTN8 Semi-Final Defeat Puts Cardoso’s Sundowns Future in the Spotlight

• Mamelodi Sundowns were stunned by Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 semi-finals, exiting the competition after a tense 4-1 penalty shootout
• Fans and football analysts have heavily criticised Miguel Cardoso, questioning his tactics and decision-making following Sundowns’ unexpected defeat
• Briefly News spoke exclusively with football analyst Mandla Biyela, who weighed in on Sundowns’ challenges, Cardoso’s future, and the 2025/26 PSL title race

Mamelodi Sundowns’ surprise MTN8 semi-final exit at the hands of Orlando Pirates has reignited debate across South African football.

Briefly News spoke exclusively with football analyst Mandla Biyela to examine the fallout and what it could mean for Sundowns’ season.

Miguel Cardoso, after the match, rejected talks about off-field issues affecting the Brazilians' performance on the pitch due to the club's ongoing issue with Lucas Ribeiro, who dragged them to FIFA, as well as their ongoing court case with Pitso Mosimane.

Sundowns defeated Kaizer Chiefs both home and away in the Betway Premiership last season, but the Glamour Boys got the better of the Pretoria-based giants in their last match, which was in the Nedbank Cup semi-final, with a controversial goal from Ashley Preez deciding the tie.

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Biyela noted that Cardoso’s post-match comments about Pirates’ long-ball tactics did not sit well with fans. He explained that supporters felt the coach was deflecting blame instead of taking responsibility for his team’s mistakes.

Cardoso is under heated pressure from fans

Fan reactions on social media were scathing. Some argued that Sundowns’ squad, despite its talent, underperformed in crucial matches, while others believed Pirates were always likely to win given Sundowns’ focus on league play.

Biyela summarised that there is a growing perception that Sundowns’ big-match mentality has weakened and that fans are frustrated with excuses rather than results.

The analyst also reflected on Sundowns’ style of play. He pointed out that the semi-final showed an overreliance on set-pieces and defensive tactics, with the team’s goal coming from a throw-in rather than sustained attacking play. Matches going to penalties, he said, exposed a lack of fluid attacking movement.

Public opinion on Cardoso’s position is divided, with some predicting his tenure could be ending soon.

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Cardoso denies off-field distractions are affecting Sundowns' start

Questions on Cardoso's game management

Tactical decisions, such as shifting Teboho Mokoena to centre-back and fielding six defenders, drew particular criticism for being too cautious. Biyela said the criticism is not just about losing but about failing to adapt effectively during games.

Looking ahead to the 2025/26 PSL title race, Biyela remained measured. Sundowns, he noted, remain contenders with their squad and resources, but teams like Pirates, Chiefs, and Sekhukhune present serious competition.

Regarding the upcoming clash with Kaizer Chiefs, Biyela said,

“Wednesday’s match will be a test of Cardoso’s capability. Every decision will be under scrutiny. This isn’t just about points, it’s about showing he can manage one of the country’s biggest clubs under pressure.”

Cardoso gives update on Bafana star's future

Briefly News earlier reported that Cardoso provided update on a South African international's future at Sundowns this summer.

The Bafana Bafana star has been linked with a move to other teams, but he still with the Brazilians fighting for his place in the starting line-up.

Source: Briefly News