‘Just The Next Match’: Cardoso’s Shocking Stance On Sundowns’ MTN8 Final Clash With Pirates
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has stressed that while Saturday’s MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates is an important occasion, he views it as just another match in a demanding season.
The Chloorkop-based side will face defending champions Pirates in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with the Buccaneers set to enjoy home-ground advantage.
The clash will be the first meeting between the two sides this season, following their last encounter in the Betway Premiership last season, when Sundowns secured a 2-1 victory.
Both teams will be eager to lift the trophy, with the winner set to claim their first domestic title of the 2026/27 campaign.
Cardoso acknowledged the significance of the MTN8, particularly for South African football supporters, but noted that the competition carries a different weight from international tournaments.
“I think for South Africa, this is obviously an important one,” said Cardoso, who is set to lead Sundowns in his first domestic cup final since taking charge of the club.
“If we look at it from a South African perspective, fans who love the game may be more concerned about what happens domestically than what happens internationally. But it’s not about what is more important. For us, every trophy matters, and every competition is important.
“Obviously, we know how we have to play. Every stage of a major competition is important, and we know that the international stage means a lot to this club. It is a huge platform, and when we compete at that level, we need to perform at our best. We are not only representing ourselves but also the country.”
Cardoso added that his team understands the responsibility that comes with a fixture of this magnitude, but emphasised that the final remains the next match in a packed schedule.
“We know the responsibility that comes with a match like this,” he said.
“We don’t take anything for granted; we want to do well. For some time, the coaching staff and I have been working towards moments like this, so obviously, it is an important occasion for us as well. But it’s just the next match.
“We will play again on Tuesday, immediately after the final, and then we will also play at the weekend in the CAF Champions League qualifiers. Those are the objectives we have to consider when planning our preparations, particularly when assessing the risk of playing players who are not 100% fit.
“However, when we take to the field, we will do so with full intent and commitment. We understand what is at stake and want to continue the season in the best possible way. We will take nothing for granted.”
