Frustrated Cardoso Blames Missed Chances as Mamelodi Sundowns Drop Points

Rethabile Nyelele18 September , 2025

4 2 minutes read

Frustrated Cardoso Blames Missed Chances as Mamelodi Sundowns Drop Points — Image: Gallo Images

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso did not hide his frustration after his side was forced to settle for a 1-1 draw against Marumo Gallants in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday evening. The result, played out at Seisa Ramabodu Stadium, marked the Brazilians’ third draw in just seven league matches – an unusual run for the reigning champions.

Sundowns Control the Game but Fail to Win

Sundowns were dominant from start to finish, enjoying 72% possession and creating far more opportunities than their hosts. Despite their control, Gallants struck first when Iqraam Rayners opened the scoring in the 28th minute. Sundowns’ response was swift but unfortunate, with Keanu Cupido turning the ball into his own net just seven minutes later to level the match.

It was a frustrating night for Cardoso, who felt his side did enough to win.

“We saw Sundowns fighting for a result until the last minute,” Cardoso told SuperSport TV. “We were penalised by a mistake we made. We had a lot of chances to score, and when you don’t take those chances, results like this can happen.”

Missed Chances Prove Costly

The Pretoria giants have built a reputation for ruthlessness in front of goal, but their finishing has been inconsistent this season. Sundowns pushed hard late in the game, piling pressure on Gallants, but their efforts were either blocked or went begging. Cardoso admitted that the performance, while committed, fell short of their usual standards.

“Not a wonderful game,” he said. “I think we should’ve had the result from here, that’s for sure.”

Cardoso Encouraged by Second-Half Effort

Despite the draw, Cardoso praised his players’ determination, particularly after half-time.

“I think we fought well, we made a very good second half in terms of capacity to fight against the adversity that was the goal we suffered,” he said. “But not enough, we didn’t score, and when you don’t score, you’re penalised. The boys tried hard until the end.”

Sundowns Face Early Title Pressure

With three draws already on the board, Sundowns will need to find their cutting edge quickly to keep pace in the title race. Their ability to convert dominance into wins will be crucial as the Betway Premiership season gathers momentum. Cardoso will be hoping for a clinical display in their next fixture to restore momentum and reassure supporters that their title defence remains on track.