sportskeeda
Mamelodi Sundowns’ coach Miguel Cardoso has denied assertions that he is feeling pressure to succeed in the CAF Champions League, particularly after their surprising elimination from the Nedbank Cup semi-finals by Kaizer Chiefs on Sunday.
Following their departure from the Ke Yona cup, the Brazilians’ sole chance to secure domestic titles this season rests in the Betway Premiership, where they are poised to clinch a record-extending eighth consecutive championship.
Additionally, Masandawana remains in the hunt for the CAF Champions League, gearing up to face the record 12-time and defending champions Al Ahly as they seek to earn a second star ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup in July.
In the wake of a disappointing defeat, despite being the favorites to reach the final, the Portuguese coach rejected any suggestions that he feels pressured to bring continental glory to Chloorkop, a title that has been elusive for the club since their lone win in 2016.
“Pressure on me? With all due respect, real pressure was when bombs were falling just 500 meters from my home while I was in Donetsk in 2014 – that was pressure. True pressure is if I didn’t have my loving family; pressure is if I lacked a club and supporters standing with me,” Cardoso remarked.
“I don’t need pressure from the game; at 52 years old, it’s time for me to live in peace. If I’ve gained anything in my life, it’s a sense of tranquility because I am not dependent on anyone’s evaluation or opinion.
“I solely rely on my self-confidence, my supporters, and my players. I will give my utmost, no matter where I am, until the very end. When that final day comes, I will accept it with serenity because, thankfully, I have lived in harmony with myself for many years.”
Cardoso’s squad will now shift their focus to continental affairs as they prepare for an exciting first leg of their semi-final match against Marcell Koller’s team in Africa’s premier club tournament at Loftus Stadium on Saturday (15:00).
Sundowns have emerged victorious in three of their last five meetings with Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League, with the remaining two matches ending in draws. The Egyptian powerhouse last bested the South African champions in May 2021 during the quarter-finals, having recorded only three wins in 12 encounters.
Pic courtesy of Ayanda Shots
