How Cardoso’s Tactical Masterclass Silenced Pirates In MTN8 Final
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso said the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates was a similar test to what they are accustomed to in the CAF Champions League, and he always knew his side would cope.
Sundowns showed they are in a class of their own in high-stakes matches against Pirates at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, where they were able to slow the game down and take the stuffing out of their opponents.
They also utilised a set piece well for the opening goal when Pirates failed to clear their lines, leaving Teboho Mokwena on hand to nod home in the early stages of the game.
For the second goal, Sundowns caught Pirates on the counter-attack after their opponents had committed men forward in search of an equaliser. Siyanda Ndlpvu was subsequently brought down inside the box, and Iqraam Rayners sealed the victory by tucking away the resulting penalty.
Ultimately, the performance highlighted why Sundowns are masters at handling high-pressure encounters.
“We had three days to work with the players because it was three days after the national team players came back,” said Cardoso.
“But we had been preparing for this match for some time. At the same time, I had people working on Richards Bay. It has been a difficult few weeks in terms of workload.
“We knew this was a very important moment in the competition, as we had reached a stage where we could achieve what we have now.
“Obviously, it is not my experience alone; it is the players’ experience in managing that kind of match. Now, we have a path together.
“Sometimes, we need to look back. I remember being with them at half-time against Al Ahly, for example, in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, when I said, ‘Guys, we need to come back stronger in the second half, and there are things we need to correct.’
“We knew that towards the end of the match, we had to return to our strengths while also dealing with Orlando Pirates’ set pieces. We knew we had to manage those 20 to 25 minutes. The substitutes brought energy, and the team maintained its organisation.
“I think it was absolutely fantastic to see the players respond. They were committed to maintaining their organisation. As time passed, they continued to show energy, commitment and strength. That is fantastic and very encouraging for a coach to see.
“When you are protecting a one-goal lead, you know that anything can happen in football. You could see how committed the team was and how well it was playing. Last year, we failed to prevent the second goal on several occasions, and our opponents scored in the closing stages. But on Saturday, we remained committed.
“However, it is just one match. We need to maintain our stability, keep our minds focused on the journey ahead and look forward to the challenges still to come.
“Of course, we are very happy because it is October and we have already collected two trophies. That is absolutely fantastic for us as players and for the club, but there are still so many things to play for.”
Sundowns remained in Durban as they will face Richards Bay in the Betway Premiership at Princess Magogo Stadium on Tuesday.
