The Mamelodi Sundowns continue to set the standard in South African soccer, maintaining their dominance in the DStv Premiership under new coach Miguel Cardoso. With a strong start to his tenure, including back-to-back league wins and a Champions League victory, Cardoso faces high expectations to deliver both domestic and continental success for the Brazilians.
Sundowns Open a Gap at the Top
Mamelodi Sundowns beat AmaZulu FC 1-0 away from home to open a three-point gap at the top of the DStv Premiership. I
The win extended their lead at the top of the table to three points, reinforcing their position as the team to beat this season. Iqraam Rayners, continuing his fine form, scored for the second consecutive match, delivering the decisive goal that kept the Brazilians comfortably at the summit as the league enters the festive period. This result not only highlights Sundowns’ consistency but also sets the tone for the second half of the season, where they will aim to maintain their commanding position.
Dominance Over the Last Decade
We might only be two league matches into the Miguel Cardoso era at the Sundowns, but it’s business as usual – leading the way in the Premiership at Christmas. The Chloorkop club has dominated South Africa’s top flight for most of the last ten years, winning seven straight league titles during that time.
The Cardoso Appointment
Miguel Cardoso was appointed as Manqoba Mngqithi’s replacement earlier this month and tasked with leading the club to CAF Champions League glory. Considering Masandawana’s track record in the league, the Portuguese coach was brought in to once again conquer the African continent, which has proved challenging since their last triumph in the 2015/16 season.
Although the Miguel Cardoso era at Mamelodi Sundowns has just begun, with only two league matches under his belt, the team is already showcasing their usual dominance by leading the DStv Premiership at Christmas. The Sundowns’ consistency at the top is no surprise, given their incredible track record over the past decade. Moreover, the Chloorkop giants have been the benchmark in South African soccer. They are claiming seven consecutive league titles and setting a standard of excellence unmatched by their rivals. Cardoso’s early tenure suggests the club’s winning formula remains intact, as they aim to extend their legacy and solidify their dominance in domestic soccer.
Backing From a Legendary Voice
Renowned South African football commentator Mark Gleeson has expressed confidence in Miguel Cardoso’s ability to thrive as Mamelodi Sundowns’ new head coach. Gleeson highlighted the ideal conditions Cardoso inherits at the club, stating, “He walks into a prime job with massive potential and huge resources, so in an African context, it’d be very difficult to fail.” With Sundowns’ strong financial backing, an experienced squad, and an established winning culture, Gleeson believes the Portuguese coach is perfectly positioned to build on the club’s decade of dominance and take them to new heights, particularly on the continental stage.
Cardoso’s CAF Champions League Credentials
Cardoso brings experience in the CAF Champions League, having steered Espérance Sportive de Tunis to the 2023/24 final. Interestingly, his Espérance side eliminated Sundowns in the semi-finals before falling to Al Ahly in the final.
“He reached the final last season with Espérance and beat Sundowns in the semis. That’s obviously where they noticed him, and it’s likely why they hired him,” said Gleeson. “Winning the Champions League is the club’s number one priority, and they believe he showed the potential to achieve that.”
Challenges Ahead for Cardoso
While Miguel Cardoso’s impressive resume includes stints at top clubs like FC Porto, questions remain about whether his previous successes will translate to his new challenge in Tshwane. Renowned commentator Mark Gleeson voiced some caution, stating, “Whether reaching one Champions League final is enough remains to be seen – I’d be a bit sceptical about that.” Despite his tactical achievements, including a CAF Champions League final with Espérance, the pressure at Mamelodi Sundowns is immense, and his ability to deliver both domestically and on the continental stage will ultimately define his tenure.
Impact on South African Soccer
The impact Miguel Cardoso will have on South African soccer and the DStv Premiership remains uncertain. For the past seven years, Mamelodi Sundowns have set the gold standard in the league, dominating with unmatched consistency. Cardoso’s arrival adds a new dimension to their already formidable setup, but it also challenges the rest of the league to raise their game. Rivals must now find ways to close the gap and challenge Sundowns’ reign, making the competition even more intriguing in the seasons ahead.
Orlando Pirates: The Closest Threat
Orlando Pirates appear to be the biggest threat to ending Sundowns’ reign. They have also adopted a European coaching approach, yielding improved performances and silverware. Currently, they sit just three points behind Sundowns at the top of the PSL table.
Cardoso’s Approach to Coaching
Observing Miguel Cardoso’s first league matches, it becomes evident that he employs a highly systematic and data-driven approach to coaching. This method involves gathering detailed analytics on player performance, opposition tactics, and match strategies, which he uses to make informed decisions on and off the pitch. His technical team, handpicked to align with his vision, operates with specialised roles that cover everything from fitness analysis to tactical planning, ensuring every aspect of the team’s preparation is optimised. This commitment to precision and structure stems from his experiences at top clubs like FC Porto and Espérance, where he developed a reputation for meticulous planning. Under his leadership, Mamelodi Sundowns look set to benefit from a modern, calculated style of management that prioritises excellence at every level, positioning the team for sustained success both locally and in the CAF Champions League.
A Promising Start
It’s too early to judge Cardoso’s full impact since his December 10 appointment, but the early signs are positive. As Gleeson highlighted, “He walks into a prime job,” and his experience suggests he will maximize the resources at his disposal.
Looking Ahead
With two wins in the DStv Premiership and a Champions League victory under his belt, Cardoso has started strong. Sundowns and their rivals know the competition will need to rise significantly to match the Brazilians’ level of excellence.
