Cardoso praises Sundowns’ focus after 4-1 win over Richards Bay

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso praised his players for maintaining their focus as they returned to Betway Premiership action with a 4-1 victory over Richards Bay on Tuesday, only days after winning the MTN8.

Cardoso had been concerned about how his team would approach the match at Princess Magogo Stadium following the emotional demands of the final, but Sundowns made a strong start and secured another convincing result.

Iqraam Rayners scored twice, while Tashreeq Matthews and Fawaaz Basadien were also on target for the Brazilians. Sandile Mabuya scored Richards Bay’s only goal.

The result kept Sundowns at the top of the Betway Premiership table on 23 points. They lead second-placed Orlando Pirates, who have a game in hand, by one point.

“I think from our side it was a match with a mission accomplished,” Cardoso told the media at his post-match news conference.

“For the people here it was probably easier to understand how difficult it is to play because of the wind.

“It’s not a complaint. We don’t control the wind. It’s just a statement about how both teams had difficulties establishing the game we wanted.

“But our main focus as coaches is that the boys could do it, after we played the final in the previous match. We needed to settle down and come into the match, to have a very serious approach from the first minute, trying to change the mindset something we worked on as soon as we woke up the day after the final.”

Cardoso said the squad’s preparation involved both physical recovery and dealing with the emotions of winning the MTN8.

“There was obviously the important work on the boys so we could recover, but mostly go over the emotions and come with a proper mindset to a match like this,” he added.

“And it was my worry before I think the team started strong.”

Sundowns must now turn their attention to continental competition, with Wiliete SC next in the CAF Champions League second qualifying round.

The first leg will take place at Estadio Nacional da Tundavala in Lubango, Angola, on Sunday at 5pm.

Cardoso said Sundowns would approach the tie with full respect for their opponents, who currently lead the Angola championship.

“They are a team that we must have a lot of respect for; they are a team that is leading the Angola championship,” he said.

“When you speak about having a lot of respect for the opponent, we must have proper preparation and commitment to how we will face the two matches.

“It will be a difficult qualifying round and we need to be at our best level.”