Cardoso: Strategic caution key for Downs on African stage

MAMELODI Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has suggested they need to take calculated risks on the continent if they are to progress from the group stage and go all the way this season.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Sundowns will end the year sitting on four points in Group C, following their win over St Eloi Lupopo and their draw with MC Alger on Saturday.

The Brazilians’ draw with Alger was a two-edged sword for the South Africans. Cardoso and his troops wanted to beat the Algerians, who are now coached by the club’s former mentor Rulani Mokwena.

On the flip side, Cardoso believes they put on a show that was deserving of the magnitude of the game and its high expectations.

The Portuguese coach's approach to the game was highly scrutinised, as critics lamented that he played for a draw.

They argued this was why they were thin in the final third after starting Iqraam Rayners as the only striker, while making only two attacking substitutions.

Cardoso defended his approach, insisting they needed to adapt to the demands of the game, as Alger were always going to be a tough nut to crack in front of their supporters, who spurred them on from start to finish.