Cardoso warns Sundowns’ Siyanda Ndlovu to stay grounded before Golden Arrows tie

Siyanda Ndlovu has quickly become a favourite among Mamelodi Sundowns supporters, but coach Miguel Cardoso has warned the young attacker that he must continue working hard and avoid being carried away by the early praise surrounding him.

Ndlovu joined Sundowns from Golden Arrows and has made two substitute appearances for the club. He has impressed during both cameos, looking comfortable within the team’s structure and producing the type of skill that has drawn enthusiastic reactions from the stands.

His arrival has increased expectations that he can become an important player for the Brazilians as they pursue success across the continent and compete for every domestic trophy available this season, including the MTN8.

Sundowns are through to the MTN8 semi-finals and are two matches away from potentially winning the competition for only the second time in 18 years. Their semi-final against Golden Arrows begins at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday afternoon, with kick-off at 15:00, before the return leg in Durban next weekend.

Ndlovu’s knowledge of his former club could prove valuable as Sundowns look to establish an advantage in the opening match. He could feature either from the start or as an impact substitute.

Cardoso, however, says the player must earn further opportunities through consistency. He pointed to the example of Siyabonga Mabena, who became a popular figure last season but later lost his place after his form dipped.

“Our job as coaches is to create conditions for the players to be consistent,” Cardoso said. “Siyanda has played a lot of PSL matches.

“I remember last season, there was a lot of excitement around Mabena. We included him in many matches at the beginning of the season, but his lack of consistency resulted in him moving to the reserve team. We will promote him again in the future.

“So, a player’s level of readiness determines how many opportunities he receives. Acquiring Siyanda was an important addition for the group, and we have high expectations.”

The Sundowns manager did not reveal whether Ndlovu would start against Arrows or be given an extended spell on the pitch. He did, however, explain why the former Arrows player is still building towards full match fitness.

“I was clear about him during pre-season. He got injured after a week and a few training sessions, training only briefly before his first game against Chiefs,” Cardoso explained.

“His match readiness is still developing, and his understanding of the team remains a work in progress. Offensively, he brings the magic everyone sees, but defensively, he still has a lot to work on.

“We are excited to have him and want to capitalise on his energy. However, developing a player long-term for both Sundowns and Bafana Bafana takes time. He is willing to put in the work because he is very happy to be with us.”

Cardoso also stressed that Ndlovu faces strong competition for a place in the Sundowns starting line-up. While the attacker’s creativity can help break down compact defences, the coach believes he must remain focused and develop both his game and his temperament.

“We have strong competition in his position, but his creativity helps unlock tight defences,” Cardoso said. “We are happy with him, but as a young player, we need to foster a healthy psychological and emotional environment.

“It is crucial that the media and fans support this balance. Early last season, whenever Mabena got the ball, everyone cheered for him to dribble when, in those moments, he should have passed.”