Pressure mounts on Cardoso after Sundowns’ cup exit

MAMELODI Sundowns’ Carling Knockout round of 16 defeat to Marumo Gallants has piled more pressure on under-fire coach Miguel Cardoso, who has now seen two potential trophies slip away this season.

- OBAKENG MELETSE

The Brazilians were beaten 7-6 on penalties by Siwelele FC on Saturday after a gruelling 120 minutes ended goalless.

Following their MTN8 semifinal loss - also on penalties — to rivals Orlando Pirates, Sundowns are now left competing for just two trophies this season: the Nedbank Cup and the Betway Premiership.

It has been an uncharacteristic start to the campaign for the Chloorkop giants, who ended last season on a high but have struggled to maintain their usual dominance. Despite sitting among the league's front-runners, Sundowns’ performances have been inconsistent, dropping points in key matches, with one loss and three draws in their opening ten league games.

The club’s hierarchy has historically shown little tolerance for underperformance, making it somewhat surprising that they have remained patient with the Portuguese tactician.