Cardoso says new Sundowns contract reflects shared vision

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says his decision to sign a contract extension demonstrates the shared ambitions he has with the club.

The details of the agreement have not been officially announced by Sundowns, but the Portuguese coach said he committed his future to the club after guiding them to CAF Champions League success.

Cardoso will now aim to add another trophy when Sundowns face Orlando Pirates in Saturday’s MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

Speaking before the final, Cardoso said discussions over a new deal took place during the summer and reflected a strong relationship between his coaching staff and the club.

“Everything was done during the summer, and it’s clear that both the club and myself share the same values in terms of how we see the game in South Africa and the continent,” he said.

“The technical staff is happy and comfortable at the club, and the club also showed happiness and satisfaction towards us.”

Cardoso also indicated that some of the finer terms of the agreement had been adjusted, although Sundowns have not publicly confirmed the specific details.

Saturday’s match will be the first cup final between the two teams since Cardoso took charge of Sundowns. The meeting carries added significance because Pirates have featured in several previous finals against the club.

Cardoso said both teams understood the importance of the occasion and the expectations surrounding a final between two major rivals.

“The club has played many finals against Pirates, but this will be our first time as coaches and we understand very well the importance of such a game and what is at stake because it means so much for the fans,” he said.

“Whatever pressure comes from the outside we will deal with in a natural way and prepare for this game like any other fixture against Pirates.”

Sundowns were the league champions last season, while Orlando Pirates finished as runners-up, adding further weight to the contest.

Cardoso also called on the match officials to deliver a strong performance, saying the quality of the refereeing would be important in a final of such importance.

“I hope the referees will be the best team on the field because that will make me feel very satisfied,” he said.

“But regarding football Mamelodi Sundowns always strive to be the best team on the field. We want to show a great image to the world of South African football and I hope we also set a good example of how a final should be played between two great rivals.”