Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso says his side faces pressure to win knockout trophies, including the lucrative CAF Champions League.
The under-fire Portuguese coach insists he deserves respect from the Masandawana family, even as his team struggles to secure consistent results.
Sundowns recently suffered a 2–1 defeat to Sudanese side Al Hilal SC. The match was played in Rwanda last weekend due to ongoing civil unrest in Sudan.
Following that setback, the reigning Betway Premiership champions also laboured against South African minnows Gomora United. The two sides met in a Nedbank Cup Last 32 clash on Wednesday night.
Sundowns eventually advanced with a 2–1 victory, thanks to goals from Peter Shalulile and Thapelo Morena. Despite the win, scrutiny around Cardoso has continued.
Earlier in the week, a section of supporters and social media users mocked the coach online. A video circulated showing him struggling to park his car after a press conference at PSL headquarters on Monday.
In response, the former Nantes and ex-Celta Vigo manager criticised his detractors and called for respect.
“I don’t think it is proper to joke with the car of the coach or the way the coach got out of the press conference, that is what is missing,” Cardoso told the media.
“You look at the coach and have no respect. This guy coaches teams no one imagined he would coach in South Africa, but just show some respect.
“One day I will go. No one needs to push anyone. We just want to work. Take it calmly and allow us to do our jobs.
“These players deserve a lot of respect. This club also deserves respect. It is a huge and strong club, with fantastic people inside, and we are united.
“It turns around very quickly. The strong ones always turn around.”
Turning to continental competition, Cardoso acknowledged the pressure on his squad to deliver a second CAF Champions League title.
Sundowns lifted the trophy in 2016 under former coach Pitso Mosimane. However, they fell short in last season’s final against Egyptian outfit Pyramids FC.
“There’s constant pressure on my players regarding the Champions League and other cups,” Cardoso said.
“They are professionals and experienced, but it is not always easy. At the end of the day, we are all human.
“Every Champions League press conference brings the same question. When are we going to add the second star to our badge?”
Next, Sundowns will turn their focus to continental duty. They travel to face Congolese side St. Eloi Lupopo in Lubumbashi on Sunday
