Miguel Cardoso: Sundowns qualification sweet, performance leaves sour taste

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso cut a conflicted figure after guiding his side into the CAF Champions League semifinals, admitting relief at qualification but clear frustration with their performance in Mali.

Sundowns progressed 3-2 on aggregate despite a 2-0 defeat to Stade Malien, having done the bulk of the work in the first leg. 

However, the return fixture in Bamako pushed the Brazilians to the brink, particularly during a chaotic first half that left Cardoso visibly dissatisfied.

“There’s obviously a lot of emotions running through me at the moment. I’m obviously not happy with the first half,” he said.

The visitors were stunned early and struggled to impose themselves, a far cry from the controlled, possession-based identity that has defined their success. 

Cardoso revealed that the warning signs had been discussed before kickoff, but his side failed to execute.

“We tried to develop the right attitude coming to this match, from staff members to coaches and the players, we knew the job was not done but in the first half we couldn’t adapts and settled down to the plan.”

The hostile conditions in Bamako only compounded Sundowns’ struggles. 

Stade Malien, unbeaten at home in the competition this season, capitalised on that environment to push the South African champions onto the back foot.

“No one has won here this season and unfortunately we did as well, a result I’m absolutely not happy about obviously.”

Despite the defeat, Sundowns’ second-half composure ensured their progression, underlining the experience within the squad. 

For Cardoso, the bigger picture ultimately offered reassurance, as he reached yet another milestone in continental football.

“Despite that, I’m very happy of the qualification, yet another semifinal for myself, a third year in Africa and third semifinal as well as another semifinal for the players.”

It is this blend of accountability and perspective that defines Sundowns’ current campaign — a team driven by high standards, yet grounded in the understanding that progression, especially in Africa, often demands resilience as much as brilliance.