After being hired on Tuesday, Miguel Cardoso, the new coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, has commended the positive response he has got from the team’s players and staff.
The objective now for the former Esperance coach, who last season defeated Sundowns from the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League semi-finals, is to lead his new team to their first group stage victory against Raja Casablanca on Sunday.
Ahead of the pivotal match, the 52-year-old Portuguese strategist talked about how happy he was to be joining the 2016 African champions and the optimistic vibes around his arrival.
“The energy has been so positive that it has been quite easy for us to integrate.
“We were very well received, and being well welcomed helps everyone work together harmoniously.
“From the very first moment, we felt that spirit from the entire Sundowns family and the players,” said Cardoso.
Additionally, Cardoso praised his team’s dedication throughout training sessions throughout the week, highlighting the importance of tactical planning and meticulousness.
“There is big commitment during our sessions. All week long, we have been working on exactly what we want to do in different moments of the game.
” This, of course, aligns with the quality of our players.
“We are trying to adapt to their strengths while refining the small details that can help us improve,” he added.
Sundowns’ CAF Champions League group stage campaign has gotten off to a quiet start.
Before giving up a late equaliser to settle for another draw against AS FAR Rabat, they were held to a goalless draw by AS Maniema Union in their opening match.
Following a 2-0 loss to AS FAR and a 1-1 draw with Maniema Union, their opponents, Raja Casablanca, are likewise vying for their first group-stage victory.
Kickoff for Sunday’s match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria is scheduled at 15:00 local time (13:00 GMT).
Related News :