Miguel Cardoso Comments on Rulani Mokwena’s Tactics in Mamelodi Sundowns vs MC Alger Tie
- Miguel Cardoso has shared his thoughts after Mamelodi Sundowns faced Rulani Mokwena's MC Alger in the CAF Champions League
- The Portuguese manager reflected on the two teams' tactical approach as their encounter ended goalless
- Cardoso's comments after the match sparked different reactions from social media users
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Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has shared his opinion on Rulani Mokwena's tactics during the Brazilians' clash with MC Alger in the CAF Champions League on Friday, November 28, 2025.
Source: Getty Images
The Betway Premiership giants played out a goalless draw against the Algerian side at the Ali La Pointe Stadium, which was packed with fans. Both managers took the match seriously as they had things to prove, and they were both careful tactically, avoiding a risky approach throughout the match.
The match was evenly contested, a fact reflected in the scoreline at full time. Mokwena's side is still without a win in the competition, while the Premier Soccer League giants are on four points.
Cardoso on Mokwena's tactics vs Sundowns
Cardoso, who spoke about facing Mokwena before the match, claimed he was satisfied with the Brazilians' performance despite failing to get all three points. He also acknowledged Rulani's side for their display in the game.
The Portuguese tactician explained that his team intended to control the match and largely succeeded, but acknowledged that MC Alger’s strategy of closing the middle and protecting key spaces had limited their offensive strengths. He added that both teams have high-quality players capable of exploiting the central areas, making it a contested zone that slightly restricted attacking play for both sides in the final third.
South African mentor Mokwena is now leading Alger after leaving Wydad Athletic Club; his familiarity with the visitors was evident in the way his team neutralised Sundowns’ attacking threat. Although Sundowns failed to score on the road, Cardoso praised his players for their composure in front of a hostile, but ultimately frustrated, home crowd.
The former Nantes coach said that, for those who appreciate the tactical side of football, it was a beautiful match, and he had great respect for what he saw on the pitch from both teams. He added that the game was played in a fantastic atmosphere, where it can be difficult to manage emotions, and noted that both teams showed maturity, with his own side demonstrating particular composure in handling different moments.
Source: Getty Images
Cardoso highlighted the team’s excellent organisation, noting that they applied strong pressure on the opponent and limited entry into the box. While he would have preferred to take all three points, he said they would be content with one and focus on preparing for the future.
Here is what fans are saying about Cardoso's comment on Mokwena's MC Alger.
George Vongani Waka Mathonsi wrote:
"Rulani supporters are crying after a loss, a draw; they thought he would beat our coach Cardoso, 3 times now their Rulani failed to beat Cardoso."
Vezumusa Khanyeza said:
"Yesterday we showed how to play Champions League away, that's why we didn't lose by 3-0. You don't be naive in Champions League, you win ur home games and get one point away, then you are home and dry."
Zenzi Crypto reacted:
"Indeed, we love our Coach. We dominated MC Alger. It was a game of chess. For us, being on top of the group and getting a point away was enough."
Thabo Emmanuel shared:
"I'm so so proud of you, Mr Coach Cardoso, and the rest of Sundowns players 👏 🙌 💙"
Tumelo Jake Mhlanga added:
"We are missing something on the coaching line, but Thlopie hates SA coaches. No foreign coach can excel at Sundowns. Cardoso is a defensive-minded person. We won't win anything this season. 66% ball possession, and 0 shots on target, and 0 big chances created. This is no longer Sundowns, boring negative football."
Mokwena names Zwane's replacement in Bafana Bafana
Briefly News also reported that former Mamelodi Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena named the ideal replacement for Zwane in the Bafana Bafana squad.
The Sundowns captain has been struggling with injuries since last season, and it is yet to be confirmed if he will be fully fit before AFCON kicks off.
Source: Briefly News
