Miguel Cardoso Reveals What Has Disrupted Sundowns’ FIFA Intercontinental Cup Plans
- Mamelodi Sundowns have had to rethink their schedule ahead of a major FIFA Intercontinental Cup assignment
- Miguel Cardoso has explained why an unexpected change has affected the club’s carefully planned preparations
- The Sundowns coach had already mapped out his players’ recovery period before the latest development
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Source: Getty Images
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has revealed what has disrupted the club’s preparations for their FIFA Intercontinental Cup clash against Al Ahli on 19 September.
The issue stems from Saturday’s domestic fixture against Chippa United. Sundowns were originally scheduled to play at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, but the venue did not meet Premier Soccer League requirements.
The match was subsequently moved to Buffalo City Stadium, with the change made earlier this week.
Cardoso says the late switch has created extra travel and logistical demands as Sundowns prepare for their major continental assignment.
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“We had a trip planned but the change of plans disrupts our preparations and plans for the Intercontinental Cup completely,” Cardoso said, as reported by SABC Sport.
Miguel Cardoso explains the travel problem
The change means Sundowns can no longer follow the return schedule originally planned for the Chippa match. Cardoso explained:
“We can no longer return home on the same day of the match and we cannot travel in the morning of the day after the game either.”
The coach had also intended to give his players several days away from football before they began their final preparations for Al Ahli.
That plan has now been affected by the altered itinerary.
“All we can do is enjoy one another’s company at the hotel and maybe walk on the beach,” Cardoso added.
Source: Getty Images
Sundowns prepare for Al Ahli clash
Sundowns’ immediate focus remains the Chippa fixture on Saturday, 12 September. Their attention will then turn towards Al Ahli and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup encounter in Tshwane on 19 September.
Cardoso has previously spoken about South African playing conditions. On this occasion, however, his concern focused on the impact of the venue change on his team’s travel and preparation schedule.
There is at least a positive connection with Buffalo City. Sundowns won the Betway Premiership title there in May 2025.
The venue switch has therefore changed more than the location of Saturday’s fixture. It has also forced Sundowns to adjust a preparation plan designed around their FIFA Intercontinental Cup challenge.
Sundowns strengthen squad ahead of FIFA Intercontinental Cup
Briefly News previously reported that Mamelodi Sundowns added former Orlando Pirates defender Deano van Rooyen to their squad following Khuliso Mudau’s injury setback.
The 29-year-old right-back joined the reigning Betway Premiership champions on a multi-year deal after leaving Pirates by mutual agreement. His arrival gives Miguel Cardoso another defensive option as Sundowns juggle domestic commitments with their FIFA Intercontinental Cup campaign.
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Source: Briefly News
