“I Won’t Lose Time”: Cardoso To Snub Soweto Derby
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says he will not “lose time” watching the Soweto Derby between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, insisting he has “so many things to do.”
Chiefs and Pirates are set to meet at the iconic FNB Stadium in what will be the 184th edition of the historic Soweto Derby on Saturday, with global attention expected to be fixed on the titanic clash.
Despite the significance of the encounter — with Pirates sitting second and Chiefs fourth in the Betway Premiership standings — Cardoso says that will not be enough to tempt him to tune in.
Sundowns moved to the top of the table on goal difference ahead of Pirates after edging AmaZulu 1-0 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Tuesday.
Chiefs, meanwhile, suffered a 2-1 defeat to Stellenbosch at FNB Stadium, with Cardoso responding “Phew” when informed of the result.
With Sundowns set to host third-placed Sekhukhune United at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Sunday, Cardoso says his full focus is on ensuring his side gets the job done.
“Everybody has to play everybody,” said Cardoso when asked whether he would watch the Soweto Derby.
“Of course, at the end of the championship we will see the mathematics. I don’t even know how Chiefs played.”
When told that Chiefs had lost, he replied: “Phew.”
“As many points as I have dropped against all opponents, the others are also asking us to lose points.
“I think the most important thing for us is that on Sunday we beat Sekhukhune. That is the focus we are going to have.
“I don’t want to lose time — sorry, not lose — but the day before the match I will have so many things to do that I won’t really look at that game.
“We still have Chiefs to play, but that is still far away. When the time arrives, we will analyse them.
“I don’t really know. It’s a good question, but the most important thing is that on Sunday we show ourselves in the match against Sekhukhune.”
Sundowns were made to work hard in the reverse fixture against Sekhukhune in Limpopo in January, scoring two late goals through Nuno Santos and Brayan Leon during stoppage time to secure victory.
