Miguel Cardoso aims to break Mamelodi Sundowns’ MTN8 curse

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says the club is trying a different approach as they look to end their disappointing record in the MTN8 competition.

Sundowns have won the tournament only once since it adopted its current branding, lifting the trophy in 2021. That record contrasts sharply with their dominance in the league, where they secured eight successive titles before Orlando Pirates ended their run last season.

Cardoso says he has encouraged his players to suggest ways of changing the team’s fortunes in the competition. Sundowns began their latest campaign against Polokwane City, and the Portuguese coach believes they must identify and break the pattern that has repeatedly prevented them from making a deep run.

“When we played Polokwane in our first match, I told the players there was a pattern that was not good and asked what we could do differently to break it,” Cardoso told journalists at a press conference.

Sundowns’ next opportunity to improve their record comes against Golden Arrows in the MTN8 semi-finals. The first leg will be played at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00.

Cardoso says his priority is to select the players in the best physical condition as Sundowns attempt to secure a place in the final after the international break.

“Our intention is to play the next match with the players we feel are in the best condition. It’s our intention to go over this round so we can reach the final after the international break, and if we show capacity to win against Arrows, we will for sure try to fight for the trophy.”

The Sundowns manager also stressed that Golden Arrows would be treated with respect across the two legs. His side lost to Arrows in the league last season, a result Cardoso described as one of the most difficult and painful defeats of that campaign.

“As much as it is a two-legged qualification, we understand that it is always difficult to play away against Golden Arrows. Last year, it was one of the tough matches and one of the most painful defeats.”

The tie has also been affected by a significant injury setback for Sundowns. Right-back Khuliso Mudau will be unavailable for at least six months after suffering a torn Achilles in Wednesday’s 2-0 victory.

Mudau’s absence leaves Sundowns without an important defensive option as they begin their attempt to reach the MTN8 final. Cardoso will therefore need to balance his plans for the tie with the need to select the players he considers physically ready for the opening leg.

Sundowns’ recent league success has made their limited return in the MTN8 particularly notable. Despite winning the competition in 2021, they have been unable to match their domestic consistency in the shorter cup tournament. Cardoso’s latest comments suggest the club is seeking a collective solution, with the players themselves involved in finding a way to change that record.