“Sundowns In His Heart” — Cardoso Reacts To Mosimane’s Massive Continental Message
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has welcomed a high-profile endorsement from former mentor Pitso Mosimane as the Tshwane giants intensify their pursuit of a second CAF Champions League title and look to shatter North African dominance.
The Brazilians secured a vital first-leg advantage over Moroccan powerhouse AS FAR on Sunday. They now head to Rabat for this weekend’s definitive second leg, a high-stakes clash that will decide who punches their ticket to the semi-finals.
Ahead of the grueling trip north, legendary South African tactician Mosimane publicly threw his weight behind Masandawana.
Mosimane famously spent eight years at the Chloorkop helm, guiding the club to its historic maiden continental crown a decade ago in 2016.
Since that historic triumph under “Jingles,” Sundowns have repeatedly faltered in the business end of Africa’s premier club competition. The Chloorkop outfit suffered ultimate heartbreak just last season, agonizingly losing out to Egyptian side Pyramids in the final.
Cardoso expressed immense gratitude for Mosimane’s backing, labeling it a massive boost for both the team and the broader South African football community.
“I have never had the privilege of crossing paths with him or meeting him. I would obviously be very pleased to have that opportunity, and I’m very thankful for his support because it means that he still has Sundowns in his heart,” said Cardoso.
“But most importantly, it means that he is supporting a team from his country, which is obviously very important for us. It matters that we have the support of the country, and that support should be consistent and demonstrated through concrete actions towards what we have to face throughout the entire season.”
The Portuguese strategist also emphasized the need for a unified front as they prepare to walk into a hostile atmosphere in Morocco.
“It’s a moment where energy obviously comes from both sides, and the more unity and peace we have around us, the better, because it allows us to work in the direction we want,” he added.
“So, any support will be welcome and, as I said, thank you very much for his words.”
Armed with their first-leg lead, Sundowns aim to finish the job in Rabat and end their long-awaited hunt for a second Champions League star.
Should Masandawana go all the way, they will become the first South African club to win the CAF Champions League twice, moving clear of cross-town rivals Orlando Pirates, who famously lifted the trophy once in 1995. Furthermore, clinching a second continental crown would book Sundowns a automatic spot in the expanded 2029 FIFA Club World Cup, firmly cementing their place among the global elite.
