Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso is preparing his team for the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday. The team has a rich history in South African football, having won numerous titles, but their record in the MTN8 has been inconsistent. Sundowns last won the competition in 2021 and Cardoso is determined to add to their tally. However, he faces challenges with key players returning from injuries sustained while playing for Bafana Bafana.
Cardoso confirmed that Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, and Aubrey Modiba are unlikely to play in the final due to their injuries. The coach emphasized that the team's priority is the players' health and they will not risk aggravating their injuries. "We will not compromise the players' well-being for one game," Cardoso said. "We need them for the entire season, and we cannot afford to lose a player to a long-term injury."
The coach revealed that the team's medical staff will assess the players' fitness levels before making a final decision on their participation. Sundowns will face Pirates in the MTN8 final on Saturday at 6 pm, and Cardoso is aware of the significance of the match. He stressed that his team will approach the game with the same level of preparation and intensity as they would against any opponent.
Cardoso recently signed a new contract extension with Sundowns, which he attributed to the team's shared vision and goals. He expressed his satisfaction with the team's dynamics and the players' commitment to their style of play. The coach acknowledged that the team's recent success, including their win in the Fifa Intercontinental Cup, has boosted their confidence.
Sundowns have a history of competing against Pirates in high-stakes matches, and Cardoso is aware of the rivalry. He emphasized that his team will not be intimidated by the occasion and will focus on executing their game plan. The coach also acknowledged that the team's fans are eager for a win, but he stressed that they will not be swayed by external pressure.
In other news, midfielder Monnapule Saleng was absent from training due to personal issues. Cardoso did not provide further details on Saleng's status but confirmed that the player is working to resolve his issues. The team's focus remains on the MTN8 final, and Cardoso is confident that his team can deliver a strong performance.
The MTN8 final promises to be an exciting encounter between two of South Africa's top teams. Cardoso's Sundowns will face a tough test against Pirates, who are also seeking to add to their trophy cabinet. The match at Moses Mabhida Stadium will kick off at 6 pm on Saturday, and fans are eagerly anticipating the outcome.
Key points
- Mamelodi Sundowns face Orlando Pirates in the MTN8 final on Saturday at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
- Coach Miguel Cardoso is wary of Pirates' threat and is prioritizing player fitness ahead of the match.
- Sundowns have a rich history in South African football but have struggled to consistently perform in the MTN8 competition.
