Cardoso Urges Focus As Sundowns Eye CAF Semifinal Spot
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has called for a disciplined and focused performance from his side ahead of their CAF Champions League quarter-final second-leg clash against Stade Malien in Mali on Sunday.
The Brazilians head into this crucial encounter at Stade du 26 Mars holding a commanding 3-0 advantage from the first leg at home, placing them in a strong position to secure progression to the semifinals of Africa’s premier club competition.
Despite the comfortable lead, Cardoso has emphasized the importance of maintaining the right mentality and respecting both the opponent and the occasion.
The Portuguese mentor made it clear that complacency could prove costly, especially in a competition where surprises are common.
“We need to have a very strong mentality in the way we approach the game and also have respect for the game itself,” he said.
“We should not relate to whatever is behind us, but we just need to do what we have to do from the first minute until the final minute.
“We should fight for the results, try to win the match, show our capacity, respect our behaviors, respect the game plan, and understand that many big teams arrived here and didn’t do well because they didn’t take this game as seriously as it should be taken.
“But also, this team has a way to play, and we need to be aware of that. That’s our job for sure – to focus on ourselves, play our game, take it to the limit, and if we take ourselves to the limit, then we will be closer to achieving the results that we’re looking for.”
A victory for Sundowns would not only confirm their place in the semifinals but also keep alive their dream of winning a second CAF Champions League title, having last lifted the trophy in 2016 under Pitso Mosimane.
Should they progress, Sundowns will face Tunisian giants Esperance in the semifinals after they defeated Al Ahly in their quarterfinal clash on Saturday. Interestingly, Cardoso previously coached Esperance and guided them to the final of this competition in 2024, where they fell short against Al Ahly.
