Cardoso makes big call to PSL after Sundowns’ big triumph
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has called on Premier Soccer League leadership to rethink South African football’s fixture calendar after guiding Masandawana to CAF Champions League glory.
The Portuguese coach finally ended his heartbreak in the competition after winning the trophy at the third attempt.
Sundowns secured their second CAF Champions League title after holding ASFAR to a 1-1 draw in Morocco, sealing a 2-1 aggregate victory.
But while celebrating continental success, Cardoso also fired a warning to football authorities in South Africa.
The Sundowns mentor believes the country’s congested football schedule is hurting clubs competing in Africa and putting players at risk of injuries.
“I believe if South Africa wants to win the Champions League again in the future, some dynamics must change,” said Cardoso after the final.
“It is important to create better conditions and proper support for clubs competing at this level.”
Cardoso pointed to injuries suffered by key players such as Thapelo Morena, Aubrey Modiba, and Bathusi Aubaas as evidence that the current demands are too extreme.
“These players could not play today because they were exposed to something that is not normal,” he explained. “They could have helped us a lot in the final.”
Sundowns endured a brutal run of fixtures this season, balancing domestic football and CAF commitments with little recovery time.
Cardoso believes the PSL leadership now faces an important decision if South African clubs are to continue challenging for African honours.
“It’s time for the people in charge of football in South Africa to think carefully about what they want for the development of football in the country,” he added.
“To help clubs move forward and compete properly in Africa.”
