Cardoso Keeps Focus Despite Sundowns’ 5–1 Lead: Respect and Mentality Remain Key

When a football club wins 5–1 away from home in a continental competition, it’s usually cause for celebration — and perhaps a little relaxation. But for Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso, comfort is not part of the plan. Despite the emphatic victory over Nigerian champions Remo Stars in the first leg of the CAF Champions League second preliminary round, Cardoso remains grounded and determined to keep his players focused.

With the second leg set to take place at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria, the South African champions are heavy favourites to advance to the group stages. Yet, Cardoso has emphasized that football punishes complacency — and that respect for their opponents must come first.

“Of course there is a big difference in the score, but we respect football, and to do that is to go into the second match with a serious approach,” Cardoso said after the match.

A Commanding First-Leg Performance

The Brazilians, as Sundowns are affectionately known, were ruthless in Nigeria. The 5–1 result was not just about dominance, but execution, control, and character. Goals from Tashreeq Matthews, Peter Shalulile, Miguel Reisinho, Arthur Sales, and debutant Katlego Ntsabeleng showcased the team’s balance between youth, experience, and tactical discipline.

Cardoso’s philosophy — a blend of structured possession play and high-pressing aggression — was on full display. Even as the scoreline ballooned, the team didn’t ease off. “Even at half-time we spoke a lot about the energy that was needed to bring in the second half,” Cardoso revealed. “Even where we were ahead by two goals, I think they received the message well, as they had commitment to score many goals.”

It was a statement performance from a club that has long been the standard-bearer of South African football. But it also reflected Cardoso’s deeper mission — to cultivate a mentality of consistency and respect.

The Importance of Mental Strength

Under Cardoso, Sundowns have quickly shown that success is not merely about talent, but mindset. Having taken charge following the departure of Rhulani Mokwena, Cardoso has inherited a squad brimming with quality and ambition. Yet, his greatest challenge may be maintaining hunger in a team used to winning.

“It is important we understand this is the first match,” he said pointedly. “The qualifying round is not finished, and Sundowns will be serious in the second match like they were today.”

His tone underscored a lesson in humility — one deeply rooted in the unpredictability of African football. Overconfidence has been the downfall of many giants before, and Cardoso is determined to ensure his players don’t fall into that trap.

A Coach with Perspective

For Cardoso, the 5–1 win was not a license to relax but an opportunity to build better habits. “We have to create a habit of winning,” he explained. “I cannot allow myself not to be in the same attitude. That’s the commitment we must have.”

This comment speaks volumes about his managerial philosophy. Winning, in his view, isn’t just an outcome — it’s a discipline. Whether facing a continental powerhouse or a domestic underdog, the expectation remains the same: approach every game with focus, respect, and intensity.

Cardoso’s emphasis on professionalism also reflects his European coaching background. He understands that great teams sustain success through consistency, not complacency. His approach echoes the standards set by elite clubs in global football — where every match, regardless of the scoreline, demands the same preparation and mentality.

Respect for Remo Stars

While the scoreline might suggest a mismatch, Cardoso was quick to remind everyone that Remo Stars are no pushovers. “They are a high-level club. They are the champions of Nigerian football, and we still have to focus on what we have ahead,” he said.

The Nigerian side, despite the heavy defeat, showed flashes of quality and attacking ambition in the first leg. Their ability to transition quickly and press high caused moments of discomfort for Sundowns, particularly in the opening 20 minutes. Cardoso’s respect for them is therefore not just courtesy — it’s tactical awareness.

In football, respect often translates to preparation. And for Sundowns, preparation has always been a hallmark of their dominance — whether in domestic competitions or on the continental stage.

Loftus Awaits

The return leg at Loftus Versfeld will be less about survival and more about consolidation. A place in the group stages of the CAF Champions League is almost assured, but for Sundowns, it’s a chance to reinforce their identity as Africa’s most professional and methodical club.

The advantage also gives Cardoso room to rotate his squad strategically. With their Premiership fixture against Sekhukhune United postponed, the team has an uninterrupted week to recover, prepare, and fine-tune their approach. Players like Katlego Ntsabeleng, who impressed on debut, could be given more minutes to build rhythm and confidence.

Building a Dynasty

The Sundowns project has long been about more than winning trophies. It’s about building a legacy of sustained excellence in African football. From Pitso Mosimane to Rhulani Mokwena and now Miguel Cardoso, the club’s leadership has consistently sought coaches who align with its vision of dominance through professionalism and innovation.

Cardoso’s cautious optimism after a 5–1 victory fits perfectly into that philosophy. It reflects a club that understands the bigger picture: success is not measured only in goals or scorelines, but in mentality, respect, and evolution.

As the team prepares for the return leg, fans can expect a focused Sundowns side — one that plays not to defend a lead, but to assert its identity.

“We respect football,” Cardoso emphasized. “To do that is to go into the second match with a serious approach.”

It’s a mantra that has carried Sundowns through decades of triumph, and one that ensures they remain Africa’s gold standard in club football.

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