Miguel Cardoso Sent Message to Mamelodi Sundowns Fans Ahead of Facing Rulani Mokwena’s MC Alger

Miguel Cardoso Sent Message to Mamelodi Sundowns Fans Ahead of Facing Rulani Mokwena’s MC Alger

  • Miguel Cardoso has shared his thoughts ahead of Mamelodi Sundowns' clash with MC Alger in the CAF Champions League
  • The Portuguese tactician directed messages to Mamelodi Sundowns as they will need all three points against Rulani Mokwena's side
  • The former Esperance of Tunis coach is also looking forward to saving his job by delivering a quarter-final ticket in the continental competition

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has sent a message across to Masandawana supporters ahead of their must-win game against Rulani Mokwena's MC Alger in the CAF Champions League at Loftus Versfeld on Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Ronwen Williams, Miguel Cardoso, Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, Premier Soccer League.
Rowen Williams speaks coach Miguel Cardoso during the Premier Soccer League (PSL) match between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns at the FNB Stadium. Photo: Phill Magakoe
Source: Getty Images

The Portuguese tactician has come under serious criticism from the Brazilians fans this season as they've struggled in most of their matches in all competitions.

In the Betway Premiership, they are currently second in the league standings with Orlando Pirates occupying the first position, while in the CAF Champions League, they are third in Group C standings with six points, while Al Hilal top the group with eight points, followed by MC Alger with seven.

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Sundowns struggle in the CAFCL this season

Mamelodi Sundowns have failed to replicate their last season's form in the CAF Champions League this campaign. Cardoso's side was one of the best teams in the competition last term.

They went all the way to the final of the competition, but unfortunately, they lost to the Egyptian side Pyramid FC in the finals.

In the group phase this season, they've managed to win one match out of five, playing out three draws and losing one, which came against Al Hilal in Kigali, Rwanda.

The match against MC Alger is a must-win tie for the former Esperance of Tunisia coach, as he could determine if he would keep his job with the Brazilians.

Sundowns are a formidable force when playing at home, and would need their supporters to rally around them during their last group game as they need all three points to seal qualification to the next round.

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Cardoso sent a message to Sundowns fans

In a recent interview ahead of the CAF Champions League tie, Cardoso asked Sundowns fans for maximum support when they host MC Alger at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, claiming it's what the team needs to progress to the next round.

The former Rio Ave manager also claimed that his squad would approach the match with renewed energy, as they are aware of how important the match is and are looking forward to giving a new reflection of themselves in the competition.

He confirmed that the Brazilians players started preparation for the match against Rulani Mokwena's side after their 1-1 draw against Saint-Eloi Lupopo on Sunday, February 8, 2026.

Miguel Cardoso, FIFA Club World Cup, Mamelodi Sundowns FC and Borussia Dortmund.
Miguel Cardoso gives the team instructions during a hydration break during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group F match between Mamelodi Sundowns FC and Borussia Dortmund. Photo: Michael Regan
Source: Getty Images

The Portuguese manager also provided an update on the squad, stating that his players will briefly reconnect with their families before fully focusing on securing all three points against the Algerian giants.

He concluded by stylishly referring to the ongoing rumours about the team's plan being leaked to the opponent, saying he prefers to keep the team's tactical approach a secret and hopes the opponent is not able to guess how they will play.

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Pirates reclaim top spot from Sundowns

Briefly News also reported that Mamelodi Sundowns lost their top spot on the Betway Premiership table to Orlando Pirates after the Soweto giants defeated AmaZulu FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The Brazilians were joint top with the Buccaneers, but the Sea Robbers' win over Usuthu relegated the Tshwane Outfit to second on the log.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Raphael Abiola avatar

Raphael Abiola (Sports editor) Raphael Abiola is a Nigerian Sports Journalist with over seven years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015. Raphael previously worked as a football editor at Stakegains (2016-2018) and a content editor with Opera News Nigeria (2018-2023). Raphael then worked as an Editor for the Local Desk at Sports Brief (2023-2024). Reach him via email at raphael.abiola@sportsbrief.com.