Miguel Cardoso Praises South African Star After Mamelodi Sundowns Win Over Orbit College
- Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has showered praises on a South African youngster after his team's win over Orbit College
- The Portuguese tactician led the Brazilians to a 2-0 win over the newly-promoted side as they overtook Orlando Pirates on the Betway Premiership table
- The former Esperance of Tunisia manager also hailed another youngster for his performance against Monnapule Saleng's former club
Mamelodi Sundowns have started the second half of the 2025-26 Betway Premiership season on a good note, as they secured all three points at the Loftus Versfeld.
Source: Getty Images
The Brazilians kicked off the new year with a 2-0 victory over Orbit College in Monday’s Betway Premiership clash, with the result placing them on top of the league table. Orlando Pirates are now in second place with two games in hand.
The defending champions took the lead in the game through Arthur Sales, after a mistake from the opponent's goalkeeper, Cyril Chibwe, in the first half.
Brayan Leon, who was playing his first game for the Pretoria giants after signing for them in this January transfer window, marked his debut with a goal in the second half as Masandawana ran the show.
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Cardoso praises Sibiya on his Sundowns debut
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has praised the impressive debut of young Thato Sibiya, who earned the Man of the Match award in his first appearance for the club.
Sibiya featured for the entire match and set up fellow debutant Brayan Leon for the second-half goal.
“Yes, of course I’m happy—it all comes down to trust,” Cardoso told SuperSport after the match.
“You won’t see young players emerge if we don’t give them a chance on the field. Their development depends on several factors, and readiness is key. Sometimes the opposition is tough, and there are moments when players are simply not prepared.”
Source: Twitter
Cardoso hails Lethlaku after his performance
Just like he did for Sibiya, Cardoso also reserved some praise for Kutlwano Lethlaku, after the South African youngster also showcased a quality performance against Orbit College on Monday, January 19, 2026.
The Portuguese mentor highlighted how the youngster proved to be an important player for the Brazilians against their opponent.
“We also had praise, who performed well. It’s important to assess the space and opportunities we provide for these players—they have to step up when given the chance. We’re pleased with his performance,” the Mamelodi Sundowns head coach added.
The Brazilians will return to action on Friday, January 23, 2026, when they host Al Hilal at Loftus Versfeld in their third group game in the CAF Champions League.
Bafana star leaves Sundowns for PSL rivals
Briefly News also reported that a Bafana Bafana star has left Sundowns for a move to their PSL rivals after spending over five years with the defending champions.
The South African international won several titles during his time with the Brazilians, but he's now a player for the rivals.
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Source: Briefly News
