Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Miguel Cardoso, responded to growing criticism following their goalless draw against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Sunday evening. The draw left Sundowns in third place with eight points from four matches. Although they remain strong contenders, the team has faced increased scrutiny.
“Why the Harsh Criticism?” – Cardoso Defends Sundowns
Cardoso expressed frustration at the harsh judgment his team receives. Sundowns drew against both Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, but Cardoso believes they face more criticism than other teams for similar results.
“Why am I always expected to win every match, while others can draw without facing the same pressure?” he questioned during his post-match press conference. “We played against two of the biggest teams in South Africa. These are not easy teams to beat.”
Cardoso pointed out that Sundowns had held their own against Pirates, who reached the CAF Champions League semi-finals last year. He also stressed that Sundowns controlled parts of the match against Chiefs, despite the 60,000 passionate Chiefs supporters in the stadium.
Sundowns’ Strong Start to the Season
Despite the criticism, Sundowns’ results so far cannot be called poor. They have two draws and two wins, putting them in the top half of the table. They are just three points behind leaders Sekhukhune United. Cardoso noted that their results against top teams like Chiefs were not disastrous, and Sundowns had their chances.
Cardoso’s frustration stems from what he sees as a double standard in how his team is treated. “If we don’t win, we’re heavily scrutinised, yet when other teams draw, it doesn’t seem to be as big of a deal,” he added.
Chiefs’ Tough Challenge
The Chiefs match was tough. The stadium was packed with 75,000 fans, and the home team has bolstered their squad. Although Sundowns couldn’t break through the Chiefs defence, Cardoso made it clear their performance was not poor.
“It’s not easy playing against Chiefs, with their fans and their reinforcements,” said Cardoso. “We also had our moments to control the game.”
Sundowns’ Long-Term Ambitions
Cardoso’s comments suggest Sundowns have a bigger plan. The club aims to succeed in both local and continental competitions. A draw against a heavyweight like Chiefs is not ideal, but it is not a disaster for the defending champions. Sundowns remain focused on their goals of dominating South African football and competing in Africa.
Check also: Chiefs vs Sundowns: Amakhosi Outshine Sundowns but Miss Winning Touch After Draw
Miguel Cardoso’s defence of his team highlights the pressure Sundowns face as defending champions. Despite two draws, they are still a strong contender. Their next match will be crucial in showing they are still the team to beat in South Africa.
What do you think of Cardoso’s comments? Should Sundowns be judged differently from other teams? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
