sportskeeda
Mamelodi Sundowns’ head coach Miguel Cardoso acknowledges that his players have yet to fulfill his expectations, but he remains confident that they will eventually understand his vision.
This statement comes in spite of the fact that Sundowns have been flawless in the three matches Cardoso has overseen, achieving victories in all while keeping a clean sheet.
The Portuguese manager succeeded Manqoba Mngqithi, a change that took many in the football world by surprise.
Even with Sundowns leading the Betway Premiership, the club’s management has voiced their dissatisfaction with the team’s direction.
The decision to part ways with Mngqithi was made following the team’s underwhelming draws in their opening two CAF Champions League group stage matches—a tournament they are keen to conquer—and a disappointing defeat against Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout Cup.
Following their tight victory over AmaZulu, clinched by Iqraam Rayners’ late header at Moses Mabhida Stadium, Cardoso noted that the squad has not yet reached his expected standards. Nonetheless, he is hopeful they will improve with time.
“Essentially, the team hasn’t achieved the level I aspire to,” he remarked.
“If our performance had been in line with our goals and capabilities, it wouldn’t just be about handling the current circumstances.
“In the match against AmaZulu, we faced our third game within a short span, and usually, fatigue doesn’t set in during the second match. We appeared sluggish, less proactive, and more reactive, likely due to a lack of sharpness.
“We are under a demanding schedule, with our next match against Richards Bay in merely three days.
“The team will undoubtedly enhance their performance by gaining confidence as they adhere to our core principles, which is essential.”
Sundowns will face Richards Bay at King Zwelithini Stadium on Saturday at 15:30.
