Mamelodi Sundowns fans have turned against coach Miguel Cardoso, calling for his dismissal after their team was held to a 0-0 draw by Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium. The reaction came despite the Brazilians still being unbeaten in open play this season, with three wins and four draws across all competitions.
The frustration has been building since Sundowns crashed out of the MTN8 on penalties to Orlando Pirates in the semi-final earlier this month. Wednesday’s stalemate against Amakhosi proved the tipping point, with supporters demanding more from a side long used to domestic dominance.
Mamelodi Sundowns Fans Call for Cardoso’s Head
For many Sundowns fans, the draw against Chiefs was unacceptable. Some sections of the crowd loudly called for Cardoso’s sacking, an unusual sight given Masandawana’s dominance in recent years.
Cardoso, however, has defended his record, questioning the expectations being placed on him.
“Were people expecting us to come here and score five goals every match?” Cardoso asked post-match. “There is a lack of respect towards our opponents. Chiefs and Pirates are massive clubs. Last season Pirates reached the CAF Champions League semi-finals. We played them twice and didn’t lose. Against Chiefs, in front of 65,000 fans, we controlled parts of the game. Why must we be judged differently to others?”
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Missing Key Players Hurting the Team
The coach also pointed to the absence of key figures, particularly last season’s PSL Footballer of the Season Lucas Ribeiro, who is yet to feature this campaign amid his push for a move abroad.
“The team that played so well at the FIFA Club World Cup is not the same now,” Cardoso admitted. “We are missing important players, and their absence is felt. We are rebuilding with young players and others who barely played last season. It will take time, but we will get there.”
Cardoso remains defiant despite the criticism. He stressed that his squad is united and motivated to turn things around.
“We are happy to rebuild and we are committed to the work. Inside the club, we are strong and victories will follow,” he said.
Stellenbosch Clash Could Be Crucial
Sundowns now turn their attention to a tricky away clash against Stellenbosch FC on Saturday, a fixture that could prove decisive for Cardoso’s future. Failure to secure three points may intensify the pressure, while a convincing win could ease tensions and buy the coach time to rebuild.
For now, Cardoso stands unbeaten but unconvinced in the eyes of many supporters. With expectations sky-high and patience running thin, the coming weeks could define his tenure at Chloorkop.
Also read: Kaizer Chiefs 0–0 Mamelodi Sundowns: Amakhosi Sparkle but Can’t Finish the Job
