Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso cut a frustrated figure after his team was forced to share the spoils in a 1-1 draw against Marumo Gallants at Seisa Ramabodu Stadium on Wednesday evening.
Mamelodi Sundowns Dominate but Fail to Convert
Despite being in control for most of the Betway Premiership clash, Sundowns were once again left ruing missed opportunities. Cardoso’s men enjoyed 72% possession and created numerous chances, but an own goal from defender Keanu Cupido cancelled out Iqraam Rayners’ 28th-minute opener. The result marked Sundowns’ third draw in just seven league matches this season, raising concerns about their ability to turn dominance into victories.
Cardoso expressed his disappointment post-match, telling SuperSport TV that his team had done enough to secure the win but paid the price for failing to score.
“We saw Sundowns fighting for a result until the last minute, a lot of wasted time, not a lot of positivity in the approach regarding the game from the referees,” Cardoso said. “We were penalised by a mistake we made. I think we had a lot of chances to score, and when you don’t score your goals … results like this can happen.”
A Frustrating Night for the Champions
Sundowns have been known for their attacking flair, but Wednesday’s match highlighted a growing trend of wasted chances. Their late push in search of a winner saw them camped in Gallants’ half, but the decisive goal never came. Cardoso admitted it was not a “wonderful game” and felt his side should have walked away with all three points.
The result leaves the defending champions in an unusual position early in the season, dropping points in matches they would typically win with ease.
Cardoso Encouraged by Second-Half Performance
While the draw was a setback, Cardoso praised his players’ determination, particularly in the second half.
“I think we fought well, the energy we needed until the end; we made a very good second half in terms of capacity to fight against the adversity that was the goal we suffered,” he said. “But not enough, we didn’t score, and when you don’t score, you’re penalised, that’s it. But I think the boys tried hard until the end.”
Pressure Mounting as Title Race Heats Up
With three draws already in the campaign, Sundowns will know they cannot afford to keep slipping if they want to maintain their grip on the league title. Cardoso’s focus will now turn to sharpening his side’s finishing ahead of their next fixture, where three points will be crucial to stay in touch with the early pacesetters.
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