Miguel Cardoso Rejects ‘Obsession’ Tag As Mamelodi Sundowns Chase CAF Champions League Glory
- Miguel Cardoso has rejected the tag of obsession placed on Mamelodi Sundowns concerning winning the CAF Champions League this season
- The Premier Soccer League came close to winning the competition for the second time last season, but lost in the final
- The former Nantes coach's comment on not describing Sundowns' dream of winning the CAF Champions League this season as an obsession sparked reactions on social media
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso says he would not describe his team’s ambition to win the CAF Champions League as an obsession.
Source: Getty Images
The Brazilians, who have become regular contenders in Africa’s top club competition, last lifted the trophy in 2016. They came close again last season, reaching the final before being defeated by Egyptian side Pyramids FC.
The Portuguese manager has been under pressure since the start of this season, but he is still enjoying the benefits of guiding the team to their eighth successive league title last season.
Cardoso on Sundowns' obsession with CAFCL
When asked how he maintains ambition without becoming obsessed, Cardoso explained that “obsession” is too strong a word. However, his team will continue to channel all their energy into pursuing success in Africa, starting with winning their group. He stressed the importance of having a focused mindset geared toward winning competitions, not just the Champions League.
The Portuguese manager noted that as the tournament progresses, many teams try to shift pressure onto Sundowns by portraying themselves as mere participants while labelling the Brazilians as favourites. He said that despite this, Sundowns will remain true to their identity, fully aware of their desire and intentions. He reiterated that he does not view their ambition as an obsession, which he described as “a medical state.” Instead, he sees it as a determined pursuit that requires total energy and commitment.
He acknowledged the club’s decade-long quest to win the Champions League, expressing disappointment that they had not delivered that achievement last season for South Africa, the fans, or the club.
Source: Getty Images
Cardoso added that the frustration is even greater for him personally, as he has spent two years trying without success. However, he insisted that this will not diminish their dream; instead, they will put everything into reaching their objective, understanding that such competitions are often decided by small details.
He concluded by saying that the immediate priority is to win the group stage, and to do that, they must win their next match, something he described as the most important game of their lives.
EL Espolon said:
"But they said his mndate is to win CCL."
Goodman Msutu reacted:
"He must lose today, we are behind Lupupo him and that stupidity Motsepe was paving ways for sundown wicked people 🥺 ftsk I don't want draw straight loose I want to see something."
Nick Blade shared:
"This one still doesn't get what the brand Sundowns means!!!"
Samuel Kgatla commented:
"His mandate is to win CAF."
Khokhololo FredBull Maanaso added:
"You don't mention the backdoor favour sometimes you need luck but it's important to create your own luck how does a team draw 4games in a row to reach CCL final and still count on a draw in the final to win it really matter they are just another rich club failing."
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.
PAY ATTENTION: Follow Briefly News on Twitter and never miss the hottest topics! Find us at @brieflyza!
Source: Briefly News
