Cardoso celebrates four trophies after 100 games as Sundowns boss

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has marked 100 matches in charge of the Tshwane club after a trophy-filled spell that began with his arrival in December 2024.

The Portuguese manager has led Sundowns to four major honours during his time at Chloorkop: the Betway Premiership title, their second CAF Champions League crown, the African-Asian-Pacific Cup and the MTN8.

Sundowns lifted the MTN8 over the weekend, completing the set of trophies under Cardoso. They then maintained their position at the top of the Betway Premiership table with a 4-1 victory over Richards Bay on Tuesday night.

Speaking after that win, Cardoso reflected on the achievements of his players and staff, while acknowledging the difficulty of sustaining such a high standard throughout a demanding campaign.

“When you collect trophies for the club together with your players and staff, it allows you to keep the ambition and ride the high,” the 54-year-old said.

“However, there is no team that can keep momentum on the top level and be perfect, but we are always trying.”

Cardoso also suggested that Sundowns might have added to their collection had their season not been affected by a congested fixture schedule.

The coach praised the unity within the squad, particularly during periods when results were inconsistent and he faced increased scrutiny.

He said the team’s ability to remain together during difficult spells had been just as important as the silverware they had won.

“The trophies we win are the moments we will remember, but what sustains the team is how we stick together during the lows and negative moments, and that is something that is remarkable about this group of players,” Cardoso said.