Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has expressed his intention to strengthen the squad in the January transfer window. This move comes after the team was eliminated from the Caf Champions League in the second round of qualifying. Sundowns lost to Williete SC of Angola, missing out on a spot in the group stage. Despite this setback, Cardoso is focused on boosting the team's chances in the remaining competitions.
The team still has an opportunity to redeem themselves in the Carling Knockout Cup, a competition they won in 2019. Sundowns will face Lamontville Golden Arrows in the quarterfinals at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Tuesday evening. Additionally, they will compete in the Caf Super Cup against USM Alger of Algeria on Sunday at Lucas Moripe Stadium in Atteridgeville. Cardoso emphasized that the team will fight for all the competitions they are still involved in.
Cardoso's plans to strengthen the squad come after a significant overhaul at the beginning of the season. Several key players, including Khuliso Mudau, Keanu Cupido, Kegan Johannes, Grant Kekana, and Teboho Mokoena, left the team. To reinforce the squad, Sundowns has already signed players like Siyanda Ndlovu, Cassius Mailula, Thabang Matuludi, and Thabo Cele. Cardoso confirmed that the team will look to make more signings in January.
Sundowns' forward, Iqraam Rayners, shared his thoughts on the upcoming Carling Knockout Cup match against Golden Arrows. He believes the match will be different from their league encounter against Durban City, which they won 4-1 on Sunday. Rayners emphasized that knockout matches are always challenging, but the team is prepared to face the challenge and secure a win.
The team's goal is to regain their momentum and impress their fans. Cardoso assured that the team will work hard to achieve their objectives, and the fans' support will be crucial in their journey. Sundowns aims to make a strong comeback in the remaining competitions, including the league, Carling Knockout Cup, and Caf Super Cup.
The match against Golden Arrows is expected to be a tough encounter. Rayners highlighted that the team must be prepared for anything in knockout matches. Despite the challenges, Sundowns is determined to secure a win and progress to the semifinals of the Carling Knockout Cup.
In conclusion, Mamelodi Sundowns is focused on strengthening their squad and competing in multiple competitions. With the January transfer window approaching, Cardoso aims to make strategic signings to boost the team's chances. The team's performance in the Carling Knockout Cup and Caf Super Cup will be crucial in determining their success this season.
Key points
- Mamelodi Sundowns aims to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window.
- The team will face Lamontville Golden Arrows in the Carling Knockout Cup quarterfinals.
- Sundowns will compete in the Caf Super Cup against USM Alger on Sunday.
