Cardoso under pressure in Champions League

"CHAMPIONS League football starts in the knockout stage!"

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Those were the sentiments of legendary South African coach Pitso Mosimane a few seasons ago.Mosimane was suggesting that while teams may excel in the group stages of the Caf competition, their true character is only tested when the “real” contenders are separated from the pretenders in the knockout rounds.

As it turns out, Mosimane was right. Many teams that dominate their groups often struggle against continental heavyweights later on, resulting in the usual “favourites” reaching the semifinals. However, it seems Mosimane's former employers, Mamelodi Sundowns, did not entirely heed his message.

They sacked Manqoba Mngqithi early last season following a series of struggles, including a below-par start to their continental campaign after drawing their opening two matches.