Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has launched a passionate defence of Tashreeq Matthews, fiercely shutting down allegations of favouritism toward the winger.
Cardoso addressed the media following Matthews’ Man of the Match performance in Sundowns’ emphatic 5-2 Betway Premiership victory over AmaZulu FC on Wednesday night. The 26-year-old was the star of the show, scoring once and setting up two goals to help the Brazilians bounce back from a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Golden Arrows and keep pressure on league leaders Orlando Pirates.
Despite his decisive contributions, Matthews has frequently faced harsh criticism from sections of the Sundowns fanbase, with some supporters on social media claiming he receives preferential treatment from the Portuguese tactician regardless of form.
CARDOSO SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON MATTHEWS
Cardoso rubbish the narrative that he treats the winger differently, insisting that squad selection at Chloorkop is strictly merit-based.
“The boys need love, just like Tashreeq. He is one of the most criticised players at this club, but he is doing things well and grew throughout the season,” Cardoso said. “I’m not the father of Tashreeq, as people say—no.
“I deal with performance. He was consistent in showing during training sessions that he deserved to play. And he played. When he doesn’t show [good performances], he stays out. Recently, he stayed out because he wasn’t strong during preparations. Now he has come back, maybe fresher, and that is why he’s performing.”
The Sundowns boss also urged supporters to look at the winger’s overall impact rather than focusing on missed opportunities in high-stakes matches.
“Tashreeq is criticised too much, and sometimes he tries too hard because he wants to do well. I know in the FIFA Club World Cup there’s a goal he could have scored, and in the CAF Champions League final against Pyramids FC last season he could have scored, but it’s not about the ones he missed—it’s about the ones he scores.”
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