Mamelodi Sundowns’ new coach, Miguel Cardoso, is certainly winning over supporters in his early days at the club, demonstrating an impressive ability to adapt to the unique challenges posed by his squad.
Following a solid 2-0 victory over Richards Bay on Saturday that maintained their position at the top of the Betway Premiership table, Cardoso is keenly aware of the tactical acumen required to continue this winning streak.
With four consecutive victories now under his belt, including important wins away to Stellenbosch and AmaZulu as well as a triumph at home against Raja Casablanca in the CAF Champions League group stage, the Portuguese mentor elucidated the strategic depth involved in team management.
Ending the year in style: 3 points, a clean sheet, and at the top of the log! 💪
Richards Bay 0️⃣➖2️⃣ Mamelodi Sundowns (19’ Sales, 66’ Ribeiro)#Sundowns #BetwayPrem #RabatsenaGape pic.twitter.com/IQlYzQ9S0M
“A coach, as they say in England, is a manager – it means you have to manage a group not only in terms of emotional and psychological stages, but their condition as well,” said Cardoso.
His decisions have not come without their challenges, as seen in his rotation of players, such as in-form striker Iqraam Rayners, who started from the bench against the Natal Rich Boyz to ensure the right balance and fitness levels throughout matches.
Cardoso highlighted the importance of individual player assessments and tactical flexibility, after welcoming back defenders Grant Kekana and Terrence Mashego from injuries.
“We knew that Grant would not sustain the entire game, and we knew that Terrence would not finish the game, so the plan was to substitute the two of them. But games have to be won, and we took a risk with Terrence,” he explained, reflecting on the fine line between strategy and necessity that characterises coaching at this level.
The Sundowns coach noted some areas for improvement despite the win, particularly in how his players utilised the available space.
“In the first half, we were not very clever in terms of using spaces at the back of the defence. We didn't think Richards Bay would press us so high,” Cardoso said.
However, he credited his players for adapting better in the second half as they adjusted their gameplay and coped with a challenging dry pitch condition that affected overall footwork.
“I pleaded with the PSL to water the pitch. This will increase the quality of football,” he added.
Looking ahead, Cardoso is aware that upcoming matches may challenge the team's adaptability further.
“It is important to understand that despite the first game we played at home, the other three games were all away,” he noted.
Sustaining success while managing a tight schedule, particularly as the team faces multiple away contests has been a trademark of Sundowns for nearly a decade now.
With an impressive nine points collected in the Betway Premiership since his arrival, Cardoso’s ability to manage not just the tactics but the morale and fitness of his squad may very well decide their fortune as they chase glory in both domestic and continental competitions.
The Brazilians will return to action with a trip to Moroccan giants Raja next Saturday as they look to build momentum in the CAF Champions League.