Cardoso Anticipates A Tough Encounter Against Stade Malien
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has urged his players to remain disciplined and defensively solid as they prepare to face Stade Malien in their crucial CAF Champions League quarter-final first-leg encounter at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Friday night.
The Brazilians enter the match determined to make another strong push in Africa’s premier club competition after reaching the final last season.
However, their dream of lifting the prestigious trophy was shattered by Pyramids, the Egyptian giants who secured their first Champions League title at Sundowns’ expense.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Cardoso acknowledged the quality and competitiveness of the Malian side, warning that his team will need to be sharp both defensively and offensively to secure a positive result at home.
“Of course, we are going to play against a team that is very, very competitive,” Cardoso said.
“This is a team that, especially in the away matches, has a strong defense and keeps that stability in the defensive line. They also rely on the front, especially on their number 10 and wingers, who don’t give opponents defenders time to rest.
“Obviously, clean sheets are very important, especially to a team like us, and also points. So, we need to keep that streak of getting clean sheets, and we need to be capable at the back, and also not allow them to come on us if they’ve got the ball.”
The Tshwane-based club had a difficult start to the current season, struggling in the Champions League group stages and falling short in domestic cup competitions. Their inconsistent performances also briefly affected their campaign in the Betway Premiership, raising concerns among supporters.
However, Sundowns have since rediscovered their rhythm and confidence. The reigning South African champions are currently enjoying a strong run of form, having won seven consecutive league matches to revive their season and restore belief within the squad.
The Portuguese mentor admitted that the early part of the campaign was challenging but praised the team’s resilience and determination to bounce back.
“We still have a lot of energy towards us, and it has been a long journey this season. There were some situations in the performances, and we had some disappointments, especially in the cup competitions,” he added.
“Obviously, it’s normal that when things like that happen, we also face disappointments, but we feel we keep our foot on the ground as we keep on fighting together. The team is showing character, and when you show character, it’s very difficult for opponents to follow us.
“What we demand from the team is to always fight, and my players are very strong on that; they are the champion players with a high level of professionalism. Everyone in the club brings energy to the fans, and fans also bring energy to us. We will keep on doing that, and we will also need fans on Friday.”
With confidence gradually returning and the team building momentum again, Sundowns will be hoping their recent form and home advantage can help them take a crucial step toward another memorable continental campaign.
