Is it lights out for Cardoso at Mamelodi Sundowns?

MIGUEL Cardoso was supposed to be a light during a dark time for Mamelodi Sundowns, and judging by the progression of his tenure at the club, it seems his light has burned out and now needs to be replaced.

- MIHLALI BALEKA

Cardoso has been at Sundowns’ helm for more than a year. However, during that period, he has done little to bring joy to Masandawana ~ a pattern that appears set to continue this season, unless he changes his approach.

Sundowns drew 2-2 with Al Hilal in their third CAF Champions League group-stage match on Friday night, missing out on a huge opportunity to buy themselves some breathing space in Group C and take a step closer to reaching the knockout round. They remained top of the log with five points, level with the Blue Wave, who are second due to an inferior goal difference.

Sundowns' sloppiness at home was uncalled for as they made amateurish mistakes by forgetting two golden rules of continental football: possession doesn't win matches, and home games at any stage are must-win.

While the players play the games and are responsible for missed chances and clumsy defending, the person to blame for the mishaps was none other than Cardoso, largely due to his squad selection.

Defender Thato Sibiya had a dream start to his professional career at the club, earning the Player of the Match award in the 2-0 win over Orbit College in the season's restart last week Monday.