Mamelodi Sundowns has entered a new chapter as they confirmed significant coaching changes at the club. On Tuesday, the club announced the departure of head coach Manqoba Mngqithi, marking the end of his tenure. Mngqithi has been replaced by Portuguese coach Miguel Cardoso, known for his past experiences with Tunisian club Esperance FC.
The decision to replace Mngqithi didn't come as a shock to many. Former Mamelodi Sundowns striker Katlego Mashego shared his insights, explaining, "Well, based on what I saw from the club and the performances, I don’t want to say the performances were not so good, but there was something different." Mashego believed the club's high ambitions and expectations likely contributed to the decision, emphasizing the pressure to deliver trophies. He noted, "We all know Mamelodi Sundowns is a big club; expectations are high. If the team is not performing, there will be a need for changes, so it wasn’t surprising for the coaching changes."
During Mngqithi's time at the helm, he oversaw 19 matches across all competitions, boasting 13 wins, two draws, and four losses. Despite these positive results, the campaign was not met with silverware. Sundowns suffered disappointing eliminations, first by Stellenbosch FC during the semi-finals of the MTN8 and again with a defeat against Magesi FC for the Carling Knockout Cup title. While the team currently stands atop the Betway Premiership, sharing points with rivals Orlando Pirates, they faced scrutiny after early exits from major cup competitions.
Looking forward, Cardoso's first assignment came during the CAF Champions League group stage. On December 15, 2024, he guided Sundowns to their first victory with a 1-0 win against Moroccan champions Raja Casablanca at Loftus Versfeld. The match was pivotal as Sundowns had previously not secured any wins, having drawn their initial group games.
Cardoso's tactical adjustments were evident immediately. He made four changes to the starting lineup from the previous match against AS FAR. His new formation showcased the integration of Mosa Lebusa, Sphelele Mkhulise, Divine Lunga, and Neo Maema, moving away from earlier setups under Mngqithi. Iqraam Rayners delivered the decisive blow by scoring the only goal with a precise low shot from outside the box, assisted by substitute Kutlwano Letlhaku. Rayners’ performance was not only commended but underscored his growing prominence within the squad.
The match was characterized by Sundowns' controlled possession and intense second-half performance. They effectively stifled the Moroccan side's attacking attempts, as the visitors had two goals disallowed for offside. Cardoso's tactical acumen was on display, as he managed to unify and motivate the team to secure their place among the top contenders for qualification to the knockout phase of the Champions League.
Looking at the standings, Sundowns now find themselves tied on five points with AS Maniema Union but remain second due to goal difference. With three more group-stage matches set for January, including two away fixtures, the pressure is on Cardoso to maintain the momentum and push the club forward.
Despite some skepticism surrounding Cardoso's CV, Mamelodi Sundowns boss Patrice Motsepe came out in defense of the new coach, stating, "His CV is one I think it's more spoke than read," comparing him to legends like Liverpool FC's Jurgen Klopp and emphasizing his potential to thrive. This endorsement underlines the club's belief in Cardoso's capabilities to galvanize the team and push for silverware as they continue their assault on both domestic and continental fronts.
With expectations towering over the newly appointed coach, Cardoso’s early performance is encouraging for Sundowns fans who are hoping for both domestic success and a stronger showing on the African stage. The coming months promise to be pivotal, not just for the coach but for the whole team as they strive to live up to the club’s illustrious history and ambitious goals.
