Former Cameroon midfielder Alex Song has described Miguel Cardoso and his technical team as “top coaches” as he commended Mamelodi Sundowns for the way they go about their business.
Song’s remarks come despite the Brazilians enduring a season in which they appear less convincing than in previous terms. For the first time since the 2019/20 season, Sundowns will cross into the New Year trailing in the Betway Premiership title race.
They have two points fewer than leaders Orlando Pirates and making their title prospects difficult is that they have played a game more than the Buccaneers. Cardoso and his men have also missed out on the MTN8 and Carling Knockout.
However, they still have a chance to finish the season with a treble, should they take charge of the PSL title race and also win the Nedbank Cup and CAF Champions League.
After just two rounds of games in Group C of their Champions League campaign, they narrowly lead the standings with a superior goal difference after being tied on four points with second-placed Al Hilal.
FORMER ARSENAL AND BARCELONA STAR SONG HAILS SUNDOWNS’ SUCCESS MODEL
“This competition [Champions League] showcases the best of African football. I never had the chance to play in an African league, but when I look at how much it has grown and how well clubs are managed today, it makes me proud,” Song told the Mamelodi Sundowns Magazine.
“Mamelodi Sundowns have built a clear model and blueprint for success. Everything about the club – from its structure to its style of play – shows long-term planning and smart investment.
“They have world-class facilities and top coaches. It is no surprise they continue to lead South African football and compete fiercely on the Continent. They truly deserve to be mentioned among Africa’s elite.
“In Europe, clubs invest a lot of money, so it is easier to build strong systems. But what is exciting is how quickly Africa is catching up. You can see it in the quality of football and the professionalism of clubs.”
Sundowns have also been overtaken by Pirates in supplying players to Bafana Bafana and the Brazilians currently have five men in Hugo Broos’ side at the 2025 AFCON, while the Buccaneers have provided nine.
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