Mamelodi Sundowns find themselves at an uncomfortable crossroads after another disappointing cup exit under coach Miguel Cardoso. The Brazilians’ shock Carling Knockout Round of 16 defeat to Marumo Gallants has sparked widespread debate about the Portuguese tactician’s future, with questions swirling around whether the club’s usually ambitious hierarchy will stay patient or act decisively.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Pressure Mounts on Cardoso After Another Cup Exit
The Tshwane giants were knocked out 7–6 on penalties after 120 goalless minutes against Gallants, their second cup elimination via spot kicks this season following their MTN8 semi-final loss to Orlando Pirates. That means two potential trophies are already off the table, leaving Sundowns to focus on the Betway Premiership and Nedbank Cup.
For a club accustomed to sweeping silverware, such setbacks are rare. While Sundowns remain near the top of the league standings, their performances have lacked the fluid dominance fans expect. A series of tight draws and a single defeat in ten league games has fuelled frustration among supporters, many of whom have voiced their concerns about Miguel Cardoso’s approach.
A Club Known for High Standards
Historically, Sundowns’ management has shown little tolerance for underachievement. Both Rhulani Mokwena and Manqoba Mngqithi were relieved of their duties despite maintaining domestic success, largely because they fell short in the CAF Champions League, the crown jewel Sundowns continue to chase.
Given that track record, many expected Cardoso’s tenure to be under review after the weekend’s shock result. Yet, surprisingly, the Chloorkop hierarchy appears to be taking a more measured approach this time, suggesting the 53-year-old coach still has room to prove himself.
Cardoso Remains Defiant
Despite the criticism, Cardoso insists he has the full backing of his players. He praised their fight and togetherness after the Gallants defeat, highlighting their “positive energy” and “will to succeed” even in adversity.
“The team fought until the final whistle, and that shows commitment,” he said. “When you play 120 minutes with that kind of intensity, success will follow. Sometimes, penalties simply don’t go your way.”
The coach also defended his squad’s mentality, pointing out that the margins between victory and defeat in knockout games are often small.
Supporters Divided Over His Future
While the coach preaches patience, sections of the Sundowns fan base are losing faith, particularly given the club’s depth and resources. However, former defender Wayne Arendse believes the Portuguese tactician still deserves time.
Arendse, part of the 2016 CAF Champions League-winning squad, argued that Cardoso’s true test will come in Africa’s top club competition. “Sundowns are built for the Champions League,” he told Soccer Laduma. “They know they’ll challenge for the league, but the real measure will be how they perform in Africa. He should be judged there, not in early domestic cup rounds.”
Arendse added that last season’s journey to the Champions League final, where Sundowns narrowly lost to Pyramids, proved Cardoso’s credentials, suggesting that a full season under his system could still deliver the desired results.
Time to Regroup During the Break
The upcoming international break could not have come at a better time for Cardoso. It offers him a window to reassess tactics, restore confidence, and iron out inconsistencies before the league resumes. However, he’ll be without key figures like young defender Malibongwe Khoza, who earned a maiden Bafana Bafana call-up after a string of strong performances.
Cardoso praised Khoza’s growth, describing him as part of the “next generation” capable of maintaining Sundowns’ high standards. His comments suggest a coach still confident in his long-term vision, despite mounting short-term pressure.
Calm Before the Storm
For now, Cardoso’s position appears safe, with Sundowns still leading the league and gearing up for another CAF Champions League campaign. But history shows that patience is never unlimited at Chloorkop. Unless results and silverware follow soon, optimism could quickly give way to action.
Whether this current calm represents renewed faith or the silence before a managerial storm remains to be seen. What’s certain is that the next few months could define both Cardoso’s tenure and Sundowns’ ambitions for the season ahead.
Related article: Miguel Cardoso Left Fuming After Sundowns’ First Betway Premiership Defeat
