Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has explained his defiant gesture that followed their breakthrough goal late in the 2-0 win over Sekhukhune United. As the net bulged at the Peter Mokaba Stadium, the Portuguese mentor clutched the Sundowns badge on his chest with raw intensity.
Cardoso has been under pressure at the Brazilians, with some sections of the fanbase calling for him to be gone. In fact, in frustration, Sundowns fans recently poured water on the club’s sporting director, Flemming Berg, last week. This was after the 2-2 draw against Al Hilal in the CAF Champions League.
With Sundowns seemingly headed for a draw on Tuesday, Sundowns struck twice in stoppage time to break Sekhukhune hearts. They scored through new signings Nuno Santos and Brayan Leon.
The victory secures Sundowns’ spot at the summit of the Betway Premiership, reinforcing their status as defending champions. For Cardoso, it was a crucial step in silencing critics and reclaiming the favour of aggrieved supporters.
“No, that is exactly the same as telling the fans that we are always on the same side, what we have written on our shirts is inside our hearts. The spirit of ‘ubuntu botho’ is inside our hearts,” he explained after the game. “What I wanted is to celebrate with them and make them understand that I am just one of them and I am here to help the club and to help the team.”
CARDOSO COMMENDS SUNDOWNS FANS
Despite battling on the road, Masandawana dominated the stands over their opponents at the Peter Mokaba Stadium. Cardoso commended their Polokwane supporters for creating an electric atmosphere. He further noted that their energy contributed positively to the team’s spirit on the day.
“But mostly it’s to also be excited, and today the fans were fantastic. We felt such energy in the stadium, such positive focus at that moment. Yes, I am also a human being, and I also have energy and emotions, and of course, during the match I have to hold them as much as possible,” noted Cardoso.
The former Esperance coach closed off with a heartfelt message to the Downs faithful. He called for a spirit of togetherness and a family-oriented vision.
“I said, and I repeat, we just need to stay committed and together with everyone that is part of the Masandawana family. The name family comes exactly to highlight the spirit that we need to have. Family should stick together in all moments,” he concluded.
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