Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso criticizes packed schedule as club brace for CAF Champions League

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has voiced frustration over the intense fixture schedule his team faces, ahead of their upcoming CAF Champions League encounter against Stade Malien.

The Portuguese tactician suggested that the current calendar makes it difficult for clubs to compete effectively at both domestic and continental levels.

 “I think today is a little bit of a dark day for football in South Africa. And we are not pleased about the situation that we were put in. It’s clear. I think no one should be in South Africa able to play a Champions League match and have to play a Championship match three days before. Everybody should be provided conditions to be successful in representing the country at the international level and we were not rewarded with that. But we keep strong. We are going to fight.” He told SuperSport TV.

Cardoso was particularly critical of Sundowns’ domestic fixture against Orbit College, which took place just two days before their CAF match on Friday night. He argued that the tight scheduling left his squad at a disadvantage, a point he feels has broader implications for South African football on the international stage.

However, critics argue that Sundowns, historically the most demanding Betway Premiership club in terms of fixtures, have always navigated congested schedules. Season after season, the club plays more games than most other teams, and predecessors managed without public complaint. Some view Cardoso’s comments as overreaction, suggesting he is seeking excuses should Sundowns fail to progress past Stade Malien in the continental competition.

Despite the criticism, Cardoso insisted that the squad will remain resilient, emphasizing their determination to perform in both domestic and continental competitions. With the CAF Champions League match looming, all eyes will be on Sundowns to see if they can overcome fixture congestion and deliver a strong performance.

The coming days will test both the tactical acumen of Cardoso and the squad’s depth, as Sundowns strive to maintain their dominance at home while pursuing continental glory.