Mamelodi Sundowns have made a significant change in their technical staff, appointing Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso as their new head coach. This decision comes after a disappointing start to the team’s CAF Champions League campaign, with two consecutive draws that left management dissatisfied, especially after Sundowns’ loss to Orlando Pirates in the Carling Knockout Cup final. Despite still sitting at the top of the PSL standings, Sundowns felt that a change was necessary to secure the team’s ambitions for the upcoming season.
The firing of Manqoba Mngqithi, who had previously guided Sundowns to success in domestic competitions, took many by surprise, given his continued leadership at the top of the league. However, it became clear that Sundowns’ management was prioritizing the CAF Champions League and felt Mngqithi’s tactics weren’t yielding the desired results on the continental stage. With Sundowns aiming to win their first CAF Champions League title, the club’s hierarchy decided to part ways with Mngqithi, bringing in Cardoso, who has a strong pedigree from his time managing Esperance in Tunisia.
Cardoso will take over immediately and will be joined by assistant coaches Steve Komphela and Kennedy Mweene, both of whom will be integral in supporting the new head coach. This shake-up comes just days before Sundowns’ crucial Champions League clash with Raja Casablanca on December 15, 2024. Given the club’s emphasis on winning the continental competition, Cardoso’s first match in charge will be of significant importance, as the pressure will be on him to deliver a positive result from the start.
While fans have had varied reactions to the change, with some supporting the management’s decision and others questioning the move, there’s no denying the high expectations surrounding Cardoso’s appointment. Sundowns will be hoping that this fresh approach will lead them to greater success both domestically and, more crucially, on the continental stage, where they have set their sights on conquering Africa.
