CAF Champions League: Miguel Cardoso returns to Tunisia with strong emotions ahead of Sundowns clash with Esperance

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has admitted that emotions run high whenever he returns to Tunisia, as he prepares to face Esperance de Tunis in a highly anticipated CAF Champions League semi-final.

Sundowns arrived in Tunisia on Wednesday ahead of Sunday’s first-leg encounter, set for April 12, with Cardoso marking a return to familiar ground against his former club.

The Portuguese tactician played a key role in guiding Esperance to the 2023/24 Champions League final before taking charge of the South African champions.

His most recent visit to Tunisia came in April 2025, when he led Sundowns past Esperance in the quarter-finals of the competition, a result that further underlined his strong record against his former side.

Since taking over at Sundowns, Cardoso remains unbeaten against Esperance, recording a win and a draw without conceding.

Speaking to Tunisian broadcaster Nessma Sport TV after arriving in Tunis, Cardoso expressed his appreciation for the country and its people.

“It is always very good to be here,” he said.

“You know that we spent an exceptional time here and the emotions are always very strong when I return to Tunisia. A big hug to everyone.”

The semi-final first leg kicks off at 19:00 GMT, with Sundowns aiming to take a crucial step toward the final against a well-known opponent and a coach returning to a place that still holds special meaning.