“I Didn’t Know!” — Cardoso’s Shock Reaction To Soweto Derby Result As Sundowns Stumble
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso appeared surprised to learn that Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs had played to a draw when asked whether his side had missed an opportunity after their stalemate with Richards Bay.
Sundowns squandered a golden chance to reclaim top spot in the Betway Premiership after being held to a goalless draw by the Natal Rich Boys at Umhlathuze Sports Complex on Sunday, just hours after Pirates and Chiefs had shared the spoils.
Pirates had to come from behind to secure a point in the 185th Soweto Derby at FNB Stadium, a match that was delayed by 45 minutes.
A victory for Sundowns would have taken them to 60 points after 25 matches, two clear of Pirates. Instead, they remain second on 58 points, one behind Pirates, who have played a game more.
Sundowns came into the match full of confidence, having won all their previous encounters against Richards Bay. It was also their first appearance at the venue since the 2010 Nedbank Cup first round, where they defeated Inland FC 3–1 — 16 years ago.
On that occasion, Trott Moloto, now part of Sundowns’ management, was in charge, while Inland were coached by the late Roger Sikhakhane, who later had a stint with Thanda Royal Zulu, guiding them to promotion in the 2016/17 season. Sikhakhane also coached Richards Bay in the Motsepe Foundation Championship.
The result was a missed opportunity for Sundowns, who had been in excellent form, winning 10 consecutive league matches before drawing with Stellenbosch in their previous outing. They have also reached the CAF Champions League final for the second successive season.
“I didn’t know they had drawn,” Cardoso said when asked after the match whether it was a missed opportunity.
“If they did, then obviously it’s a missed opportunity. I only found out now.
“If they drew, it makes it even more frustrating because we should have taken our chance and scored to go ahead.
“There are five matches left — Polokwane City twice, then Kaizer Chiefs, Siwelele, and TS Galaxy. That’s correct.
“It means it’s still in our hands.”
Cardoso believes Sundowns remain firmly in control of their title destiny, provided they win their remaining fixtures in pursuit of a ninth successive league crown.
“We have all the conditions to win all the matches; we just need to do it,” he said.
“We’ve lost an opportunity — we’ve dropped four points in the last two matches after a run of 10 consecutive victories. That’s not the kind of performance that wins you the championship if you don’t correct it.
“But five wins — that’s what we need to do.”
