Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has firmly stated their objective: to secure a place in the CAF Champions League semifinal.

Cardoso spoke from Tunisia, ahead of their crucial second-leg quarterfinal clash against Esperance at Stade Olympique Hammadi-Agrebi in Radès on Tuesday (21:00).

Peter Shalulile’s solitary goal in the first leg at Loftus Stadium gives Sundowns a slim advantage, as they aim to reach the Champions League semifinal for the third consecutive time.

“We are fully aware of what is at stake,” Cardoso asserted. “We understand the challenge ahead, our ambitions, and our capabilities. Our objective is clear: to progress to the next stage of the competition. This is what we have been working towards for an extended period.”

“Our preparations have been meticulously focused on ensuring we are capable of delivering a performance that achieves this goal on Tuesday.”

This encounter marks the second meeting between the two sides in this competition. Last year, Esperance triumphed 2-0 on aggregate in the semifinal.

Notably, Esperance was then coached by Cardoso, who joined Sundowns in December, while Rulani Mokwena led Sundowns at that time, departing at the end of the season.

Esperance, under Cardoso’s leadership, won the Tunisian league last season but subsequently lost to Al Ahly in the Champions League final.

Cardoso was dismissed in October before Sundowns appointed him two months later, replacing Manqoba Mngqithi.

Cardoso refrained from discussing his past with Esperance, citing respect for his former colleagues.

“My relationship with Esperance remains excellent,” Cardoso stated. “With the management, the president, the board, and everyone associated with the club, I received and reciprocated genuine affection.”

“Our relationship is as positive as when I first arrived, and I have no further comments on that matter.”

“However, Champions League matches are result-oriented. I recall last year when many criticized Esperance’s performance en route to the final, yet they ultimately reached it.”

“As coaches, we do not dwell on external opinions when we have a clear understanding of our objectives. I do not wish to revisit those matches as it is inappropriate to discuss coaches who are no longer present. Those matches were played under different leadership.”

“Our focus is on the task at hand. We know what we need to do, how we have prepared, and what we must demonstrate on the pitch. We must display unwavering commitment, nothing more. In a coaching career, every match presents unique challenges, and we must adapt to each context.”