Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso is facing a critical moment in his career. The Portuguese manager’s future with the South African football club now depends on two upcoming matches. His job could be over if the team fails to perform well in these games.
Cardoso has been under pressure since the season began. Fans have not been happy with how the team has been playing. The club’s supporters feel the football quality has dropped. They miss the attractive style the team used to show on the field. Despite winning matches, the performances have not impressed anyone.
After a recent 2-1 victory against Gomora United, Cardoso made an honest statement. He said, “One day, I will go.” This comment shocked many people. It showed that even the coach knows his position is not secure. The match was part of the last 32 round of a cup competition. While the team won, they struggled throughout the game.
Cardoso has often blamed busy schedules for poor performances. He has tried to defend his work by pointing to congested fixtures. However, this excuse is not working anymore. The club’s management and fans want better results and better football. It is easy to see why people are frustrated. The team has talented players but is not showing their best form.
The next two games will decide everything. Sundowns must play St Eloi Lupopo away in Lubumbashi this Sunday. Then they host MC Alger next Friday in Pretoria. Both matches are part of the CAF Champions League group stage. The team needs to win both games to move to the knockout rounds.
If Sundowns fail to qualify for the next stage, Cardoso will likely lose his job. Reports suggest the club’s bosses are ready to fire him if results do not improve. This would be a simple decision for them. The Champions League is the club’s main target this season.
Sundowns last won the CAF Champions League in 2016. The club has spent a lot of money on new players since then. They want to win Africa’s biggest club competition again. Winning the domestic league is expected every year. Sundowns have won the last eight league titles in a row. That has become normal for them.
The pressure on Cardoso is now at its highest point. The trip to Congo to face St Eloi Lupopo will be his first real test. MC Alger’s coach is Rulani Mokwena, who used to work at Sundowns. This adds extra interest to that match. Mokwena knows the team well, which could make things harder for Cardoso.
Fans are watching closely to see what happens. Many believe change is needed. They want a coach who can bring back the exciting football they love. The team has quality players who should be performing much better. Getting results is important, but how those results come also matters.
For Cardoso, the next week could determine his entire future in South African football. Two wins would give him breathing space. Anything less might end his time at one of Africa’s biggest clubs. The situation is tense, and everyone knows what is at stake.
The matches will be difficult, but Sundowns have the talent to win. Whether Cardoso can get the best from his players remains to be seen. These games will answer that question in a very clear way.
