Cardoso says Sundowns success has shown South Africa what he can deliver

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso believes his achievements since taking charge have demonstrated to South Africans that he can lead the club to further success.

The Portuguese manager joined Masandawana towards the end of 2024, succeeding Manqoba Mngqithi.

Cardoso has since guided Sundowns to the Betway Premiership title and the CAF Champions League trophy.

The club’s continental triumph came after a difficult route to the final. Sundowns were beaten by Pyramids in the previous CAF Champions League final before eventually securing the trophy under Cardoso.

Although he accepts that progress has not always been straightforward, the coach remains convinced that his work has established a foundation for more success at the club.

“And I think I already proved South Africa that we can do beautiful things together. It’s just a matter of letting the things flow,” said Cardoso.

“Obviously the direction is not always straight. It’s like this [rollercoaster], but we know the sense that we want to go. It’s that way, not this way.

“But the direction sometimes, we go that way. And love will always unite us as much as the critics can try to tell us about.”

Cardoso’s comments come after a period in which Sundowns have strengthened their position domestically while also reaching the top of African club football. He said the journey could include setbacks, but maintained that the overall direction of the team remained clear.

The coach also suggested that the relationship between the club and its supporters could withstand criticism, with a shared sense of purpose continuing to bring them together.