Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has opened up on Miguel Reisinho’s red card during Saturday’s Carling Knockout Round of 16 clash with Marumo Gallants FC at Lucas Moripe Stadium.
The Brazilians were booted out of the beer cup 7-6 on penalties following a 0-0 draw after extra time. What was supposed to be a memorable evening for Reisinho in front of Masandawana fans in their own backyard turned out to be a dark debut for the new signing.
The Portuguese midfielder saw red on 85 minutes and just seven minutes after coming off the bench for Arthur Sales. A dangerous challenge on the Siyabonga Nhlapo earned Reisinho marching orders.
That left Sundowns playing the final five minutes of regulation time, as well as regulation time with a man down. In the end, they failed to break a stubborn Gallants defence and a penalty shootout had to decide the contest.
WHAT DID CARDOSO SAY ABOUT REISINHO’S SENDING OFF?
After Reisinho’s dismissal left Masandawana with some numerical disadvantage in the critical stage of the match, Cardoso shares his thoughts on the incident, saying there is no need to complain.
“Look, those moments happen. It’s unfortunate we have to go so long without one player, but it’s football and what we expect is that he lines with the team, helps the team,” said Cardoso on SuperSport TV.
“Like any other player, we have a lot of players that can help the team and they will help in different moments and nothing to complain it’s football it can happen.”
Saturday’s exit from the Carling Knockout means Sundowns have already missed out on two major trophies this season after also failing to win the MTN8.
It is a difficult term for the Brazilians who have a slim lead in the Betway Premiership title race with just a point clear of second-placed Sekhukhune United FC who have played a game less.
In previous seasons, Sundowns would have started to pull away from the chasing pack, but they are now struggling to take a comfortable lead.
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