Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso is expected back in South Africa ahead of Saturday’s MTN8 clash against Polokwane City FC. This is after his short trip to Portugal to spend time with his family before the demands of the new season intensify.
The 2025/26 CAF Champions League winner did not travel back with Masandawana as they returned from their pre-season camp in Austria on Sunday. Assistant coach Fabio Fernandes was also not part of the group as he attended to family responsibilities.
The Brazilians took a scheduled break on Tuesday and will resume preparations on Wednesday, with Cardoso expected to be back with the squad.
Sundowns had initially been due to begin their Betway Premiership campaign against Marumo Gallants on Saturday. However, the fixture was postponed after the club requested a delay following their overseas preparations.
The reigning African champions will now turn their full attention to their opening competitive fixture of the season against Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-finals at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Saturday, 15 August.
Cardoso’s brief return to Portugal came immediately after the Austria training camp, giving him a chance to reconnect with his family before embarking on another demanding campaign that includes domestic and continental commitments. Portugal is approximately 2,300km west of Austria by air, making the stopover a relatively short journey before returning to South Africa.
‘WE WEREN’T IN THE BEST PLACE EMOTIONALLY’: CARDOSO
Cardoso offered a glimpse into his brief break by sharing photos with his family on Instagram before also taking time to wish club captain Themba Zwane a happy birthday on Monday.
The Austria camp marked an important chapter in Sundowns’ pre-season, coming just weeks after the tragic passing of midfielder Jayden Adams. Reflecting on the trip’s emotional significance, Cardoso said leaving South Africa gave the squad an opportunity to begin the healing process.
“We unfortunately had to interrupt pre-season following the passing of Jayden… We were not in the best place emotionally, so leaving the country and stepping away from that environment for a while was very important,” said Cardoso.
He added that the camp also provided the ideal environment to prepare the squad for the challenges ahead through high-level international opposition and the integration of new signings and academy players.
Sundowns will be hoping for a good start in the MTN8 Cup when they face Rise n Shine at the weekend.
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