Miguel Cardoso Explains Why This Season Will Be Difficult for Mamelodi Sundowns
- Miguel Cardoso has explained why this season would be difficult for Mamelodi Sundowns compared to last campaign
- The Portuguese tactician referred to the Brazilians' rivals, Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs
- Fans shared their thoughts on social media concerning what the former Esperance of Tunisia coach
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso admits that this campaign is shaping up to be one of the toughest seasons for the Brazilians.
Source: Getty Images
After a mixed start to the season, Sundowns began the term slowly, drawing two of their first five league matches, but have since recovered and climbed back to the top of the Betway Premiership table with 25 points from 12 games.
Cardoso led the Brazilians to the league title last season but missed out on cup competitions, especially after losing to Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League final and to Kaizer Chiefs in the semi-final of the Nedbank Cup.
Orlando Pirates also had a sluggish start, losing their opening fixture, yet they now sit second with 22 points and two games in hand. Meanwhile, Kaizer Chiefs made a strong start to the season, securing positive results in their first five matches, and are currently third, level on points with Pirates after 11 outings.
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Cardoso explains why this season is difficult
Cardoso reflected on the Soweto giants’ preseasons, noting that both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs have shown the benefits of strong preparation and deeper squads, as evidenced by their continued competitiveness even without some of last season’s key players. He said the league would always be tough, adding that the overall level of competition has noticeably improved.
The Portuguese tactician explained that both Pirates and Chiefs had impressive preseasons, travelling abroad to face strong opponents and moving quickly in the transfer market to strengthen their squads. He pointed out that Pirates have been able to rotate players without losing quality, even leaving out important contributors like Kamogelo Sebelebele and Relebohile Mofokeng, yet still maintaining their level due to the squad depth built during the summer window.
He added that Kaizer Chiefs have shown similar growth, winning matches through the impact of players coming off the bench. Cardoso noted that even someone like Gaston Sirino is now among the substitutes, which further highlights the improved quality within the top South African teams. As the overall level rises, he said that competition naturally becomes more balanced.
Source: Getty Images
The former Esperance of Tunisia coach concluded that his own team did not start the season under ideal conditions, which contributed to their early struggles. However, he believes they are only now beginning to reach the point where they can grow and perform at the level they expect.
Here is what fans are saying about Cardoso's opinion about this season being tougher for Sundowns.
Bojanala Monareng said:
"The league will be exciting this season...let's hope Kaizer Chiefs won't drop and start losing."
Nkosinathi Nkunyane implied:
"Pitso used to praise Orlando Pirates, only to trash them 6-0 or 4-0."
Village Lawyer responded:
"I need him to stop doing interviews, including post-match. He needs to shut up."
Kay_gee77 wrote:
"Nah, bro 🤣 you dismantled a strong Sundowns team that was winning. Now the football that is being played at sundowns is boring. Sundowns used to play like Man City. They would make more than 15 touches without opponents touching the ball."
DLefophane shared:
"They have been doing it every season!!!!!! Mara Cardoso, i give up."
Black Afrikaner commented:
"Even after 10 to 15 games, he is still talking about pre-season? After 2 international breaks???"
Khaliphile Ndayini reacted:
"I don't understand when he says "bring opponents from abroad "..coz our squad is 90 % local players.."
Molefi Lebona added:
"Both teams have been doing that for many seasons. Your arrival brought that Competition..We've been dominating them..hence the Seven League Titles.."
Cardoso comments on title race
Briefly News also reported that Cardoso aired his views on the Betway Premiership title race after dropping points against Pirates.
Sundowns are hoping to retain the league title and extend their reign as champions for another season.
Source: Briefly News
