Cardoso: We Had To Take The Bull By Its Horns

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso was left unimpressed with his side’s first-half display, admitting they had to “take the bull by its horns” to secure what he described as “tasty” three points against Marumo Gallants.

Cardoso reacted to the sluggish start in their Betway Premiership clash at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Tuesday by introducing Teboho Mokoena at the start of the second half in place of Miguel Reisinho.

The substitution proved decisive, as Mokoena scored twice to inspire Sundowns to a 3-1 victory, moving them two points clear at the top of the standings ahead of Orlando Pirates.

Sundowns now sit on 50 points after 21 matches, level with Pirates on goal difference, as the title race continues to intensify. The defending champions capitalised on Pirates dropping points against Bloemfontein Celtic over the weekend.

Heading into the match, Sundowns knew that victory would take them to the summit, with top spot having frequently changed hands between them and Pirates in recent weeks.

Cardoso had made six changes to the side that defeated Stade Malien 3-0 in the CAF Champions League quarter-final first leg in Pretoria, as he attempted to balance domestic and continental commitments ahead of the return leg in Bamako on Sunday.

“Technically, it was not the best game,” Cardoso told SuperSport TV.

“In the first half, I was really not satisfied. We need to understand that it’s time to give everything from the first minute because we were a little sloppy from the start. I think we showed too little respect for ourselves by not committing to the highest intensity.

“In the second half, we changed our attitude because it was not the best game — I repeat. But we showed a good side after the break. We had to take the bull by its horns, and in the end, it is quite tasty three points.”

The victory means Sundowns have now suffered just one defeat in the league this season. Their focus now shifts back to the CAF Champions League, where they face Stade Malien in the second leg with a semi-final place at stake.