Miguel Cardoso Explains Why Orlando Pirates Are Stronger Than Mamelodi Sundowns This Season
- Miguel Cardoso has shared why he thinks Orlando Pirates are stronger than Mamelodi Sundowns this campaign
- The Portuguese mentor failed to lead his team to victory against the Sea Robbers in their Betway Premiership encounter
- The European tactician's view on the topic gathered different opinions from Premier Soccer League fans on social media
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has admitted that Orlando Pirates currently have an edge in terms of squad depth, making them stronger and better positioned to mount a sustained title challenge this season, as both teams are being considered favourites to win the league.
Source: Getty Images
Following their 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld, which kept Sundowns three points clear at the top of the Betway Premiership despite playing two games more, Cardoso acknowledged that Pirates have built a formidable squad capable of competing across multiple fronts.
The Portuguese tactician noted that the Buccaneers’ depth gives them an advantage as the season progresses, particularly with the demands of domestic and continental competitions.
Cardoso explained why Pirates are stronger.
Cardoso elaborated on his earlier comments regarding Orlando Pirates’ strength in depth, explaining that the Soweto giants had significantly improved their squad balance compared to previous seasons.
He pointed out that Pirates’ ability to make changes without losing intensity is what sets them apart, crediting their transfer activity for strengthening every department of the team.
The Sundowns coach noted that several players who were key figures for Pirates last season are now struggling to make the matchday squad, a clear sign of the competition for places within the team.
Cardoso added that he had instructed his players to capitalise on Pirates’ limited attacking options in their recent clash, as some of the club’s usual game-changers were unavailable.
Source: Getty Images
The former Esperance coach emphasised that with the likes of Mofokeng and Sebelebele missing, Pirates lacked the same level of attacking threat from the bench that they would normally have. He concluded by acknowledging that if those players had been available, Pirates could have posed a greater challenge to his side.
Here is what fans are saying about Cardoso's submission that Pirates are stronger than Sundowns this season.
Mashilo Edwin III said:
"Pray very hard that re tsena ko Caf cause if doesn't happen... PSL will feel Pirates And what will hurt all South Africans is, there's no team going to win Caf🤣🤣."
Patience Waka Bambalele shared:
"Sundowns sustained its dominance in the SA soccer because it had a pool of talented players. It was able to put pressure on other teams because of that."
Sydney Taurai Mpofu reacted:
"Facing Pirates this season is like going to gun battle carrying a knife .PSL teams wil have to change their approach,up the Bucs."
Rathabeng BraTheo Mogoboya wrote:
"He's at it again by giving titles away. He let the CAFCL slip. He'll let the league title slip as well."
Kadiši Morwangwato Ramontja commented:
"Pirates will be strong bcos of Cardoso's wrong tactics. Sundowns are not defensive team. We are lucky cos Pirates use all their energy when they meet Sundowns but aboSekhukhune and Gallant will deal with them."
Mkhanyisi Madlavana added:
"Lol this coach released 16 players from ,Sundowns now he is marvelling about the depth of pirates."
Cardoso speaks on title race
Briefly News previously reported that Miguel Cardoso opened up on the title race in the Betway Premiership after Sundowns were held to a draw by Orlando Pirates.
The former Nantes mentor led Masandawana to their eighth consecutive league title last season, and they are still favourites this campaign.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
