Motsepe says Cardoso has added steel to Sundowns’ style

Mamelodi Sundowns chairman Thlopie Motsepe says manager Miguel Cardoso deserves recognition for bringing greater defensive strength to the club’s traditionally stylish “shoe, shine and piano” approach.

Motsepe was speaking after Sundowns defeated Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final to win the Wafa Wafa title for the first time since 2021. The victory ended Pirates’ four-year run as champions of the competition.

Teboho Mokoena and Iqraam Rayners scored for Masandawana in a match that Motsepe acknowledged was not the most attractive performance, but which delivered a significant result for the Brazilians.

“There were moments of piano shoe shine, which we can all be very proud of,” Motsepe said on SABC Sport.

“But I think we should all give credit to the coach as well because what you see in this Mamelodi Sundowns now as well as is a little of shoe, shine and piano with steel.

“And there are moments where we do need to firm up the defence and focus, and the time for the play and the good passing will come, but it comes with patience.”

Motsepe also praised the supporters for their understanding as Sundowns came under pressure during the final, with Orlando Pirates creating difficult moments for the champions.

He singled out Ronwen for his contribution after a number of important saves helped Sundowns hold on to their lead and complete the victory.

“I also think it’s very important to say thank you to the supporters who understand and are starting to understand a little more, where there were moments in this game where we were under pressure, and Orlando Pirates did put us under pressure,” Motsepe said.

“Ronwen made some incredible saves and we can now look back on this and all of us, the Yellow Nation can celebrate the MTN8.”

Trophy dedicated to Jayden Adams

Motsepe said the entire club is working with the memory of the late Jayden Adams in mind and intends to dedicate every trophy won during the campaign to him.

He added that the players and Cardoso were expected to share that sentiment, and said the victory carried particular emotional significance because Adams had meant so much to those at the club.

“I’m sure the coach will say it and many of the players will say it, we’re dedicating every trophy we lift to Jayden Adams and his memory,” he said.

“I’m just so happy that they could do this for him, because he meant so much to them.”