Cardoso targets MTN8 turnaround as Sundowns face Golden Arrows

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says his side are determined to break their disappointing record in the MTN8 when they meet Golden Arrows in the semi-final first leg on Sunday.

The match will be played at Lucas Moripe Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 3pm, as Sundowns begin another attempt to win a competition in which they have lifted the trophy only once under its current branding, in 2021.

Sundowns’ record in the MTN8 contrasts sharply with their dominance in the league. They won the league title eight consecutive times before Orlando Pirates ended that run last season, but have struggled to reproduce that success in the early-season cup competition.

Cardoso said the squad had been encouraged to examine its previous performances and suggest ways of changing the pattern that has held them back.

“When we played Polokwane in our first match, I told the players there was a pattern that was not good and asked what we could do differently to break it,” Cardoso told journalists at a press conference.

The Portuguese coach said selection for Sunday’s match would be based on the condition of the players available to him. Sundowns’ immediate objective is to negotiate the two-legged semi-final and secure a place in the final after the international break.

“Our intention is to play the next match with the players we feel are in the best condition. It’s our intention to go over this round so we can reach the final after the international break, and if we show capacity to win against Arrows, we will for sure try to fight for the trophy.”

Cardoso also stressed that Golden Arrows would be treated with respect across both legs. Sundowns lost to Arrows in the league last season, a result the coach described as particularly difficult for his team.

“As much as it is a two-legged qualification, we understand that it is always difficult to play away against Golden Arrows. Last year, it was one of the tough matches and one of the most painful defeats.”

The first leg gives Sundowns the chance to establish an advantage before the return meeting, while Cardoso’s side continue their effort to end what has become a prolonged struggle in the MTN8.

There was also a setback to Sundowns’ defensive options before the tie. Right-back Khuliso Mudau will miss at least six months after suffering a torn Achilles during Wednesday’s 2-0 victory.

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