Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso admits the pressure is mounting on his players as they navigate a tense Group C in the CAF Champions League.
The South African side will face Saint-Eloi Lupopo at Stade TP Mazembe on Sunday, looking to recover from a recent setback.
Sundowns suffered a 2-1 defeat to Al-Hilal last Friday before bouncing back with a 2-1 victory over Gomora United in the Nedbank Cup Round of 32 on Wednesday.
Lupopo, meanwhile, were beaten 2-0 by MC Alger in their latest CAF Champions League outing, leaving Group C tightly contested.
Sundowns currently sit second in the group with five points, three behind leaders Al-Hilal, who have eight points from four matches.
MC Alger’s win has moved them to within one point of Sundowns in third place, while Lupopo occupy fourth, level on four points with a -3 goal difference.
Group C has emerged as one of the tournament’s most competitive, with Sundowns set to host MC Alger in their final group match on Saturday, February 14.
Reflecting on his team’s campaign, Cardoso acknowledged the growing expectations surrounding Sundowns as they chase a second CAF Champions League title.
“There’s increased permanent pressure on my players regarding the Champions League and cups,” Cardoso said.
“As much as they are professionals and experienced and should deal with it, it’s not that simple because, in the end, we’re all human beings.
“In all press conferences of the Champions League before and after, even when we go abroad, there’s always that question of when are we going to put the second star on our badge,” he added.
Kick-off against Lupopo is set for 13:00 GMT.
