Mamelodi Sundowns coach, Miguel Cardoso, expressed his frustration with the timing of a FIFA Club World Cup marketing event that took place just hours before his team’s crucial match against Orlando Pirates.
Cardoso’s Frustration with the Event
Last Friday, the FIFA Club World Cup team visited Sundowns’ training grounds for a photoshoot with the trophy, right before their Betway Premiership clash against Pirates. This did not sit well with Cardoso, who felt that the timing was inappropriate, especially with such an important match ahead.
“Believe me, yesterday I was so pissed off!” Cardoso revealed. “We had a day to think about the World Cup, but we should’ve been focusing on Pirates. I wasn’t happy, because what’s ahead for us is always the next match. I don’t think about the World Cup or the Champions League… it’s all about preparing for the next day, and the next game,” he said.
Sundowns’ Dominant Victory Over Pirates
Despite the off-field distractions, Sundowns delivered a resounding 4-1 victory over Orlando Pirates, effectively ending the latter’s title hopes for the season. Grant Kekana, Lucas Ribeiro (with two goals), and Teboho Mokoena were on the scoresheet, extending Sundowns’ lead at the top of the PSL table.
Pitch Conditions and Riveiro’s Comments
The match was played on a poor pitch, which both teams struggled with. However, Pirates’ coach, Jose Riveiro, was keen to downplay any excuses regarding the field’s condition. “Whatever I say about the pitch will be a headline on social media tomorrow, and I don’t want that. The field was the same for both teams, and Sundowns found a way to win despite it. The conditions were tough, but we can’t use it as an excuse for the loss,” Riveiro stated in the post-match press conference.
The win moved Sundowns nine points clear at the top of the league, making their pursuit of a domestic title all the more secure, as they continue to impress on multiple fronts.
