Chaos at Mamelodi Sundowns: Will Coach Miguel Cardoso Be Fired After Another Crushing Defeat?

Mamelodi Sundowns’ latest match ended in heartbreak as the team failed to secure the vital result needed to advance or win a crucial trophy.

Fans had hoped for at least a draw, with a 2-2 scoreline being sufficient, but the team fell short despite showing glimpses of a comeback.

One glaring missed opportunity came just before halftime when Tashri Matthews had a clear chance to score, a goal that could have changed the course of the game.

Unfortunately, that chance went begging, and the failure to capitalize ultimately cost Sundowns dearly.

The defeat has intensified speculation about the future of head coach Miguel Cardoso.

When Cardoso was appointed, the club’s leadership made it clear that the primary objective was to win the CAF Champions League—not just domestic success.

Cardoso’s track record included beating Sundowns last season while managing rivals Espérance, and guiding them to finals, but now, after two successive final losses, doubts have grown.

Last season, Cardoso’s Espérance lost a final, and this season, Sundowns under his leadership suffered a painful defeat in the CAF Champions League final.

These back-to-back failures have led to growing frustration among fans and club insiders alike.

Jun Kanya, a vocal commentator on Sundowns’ affairs, has been especially critical.

He argues that Cardoso was hired specifically to deliver continental success, and since he has failed to do so, the club should not hesitate to part ways with him immediately.

“Fire him right now,” Kanya said.

“He was brought in to win the Champions League. He failed, so why keep him?”

Others have criticized the club’s previous decision to fire former coach Rulani Mokwena, suggesting that Sundowns may have acted hastily and now regret their choice.

Mokwena had led the team to the semifinals of the Champions League before his dismissal, and some feel he deserved more time.

Social media platforms are flooded with angry comments from Sundowns supporters.

Many accuse Cardoso of having a personal vendetta against the club, pointing to controversial decisions such as benching key players like Peter Shalulile and Sipho Mbule.

Fans argue that if these players had been fielded, the outcome might have been different.

One supporter humorously lamented, “If the coach didn’t bench Shalulile, we’d be celebrating now.

Instead, I’m stuck doing household chores as punishment.”

The frustration extends beyond tactical choices.

Fans fear that with Cardoso at the helm, Sundowns’ chances of winning any trophy next season are slim.

Some predict that the club is on a downward spiral and that the coach’s stubbornness is holding the team back.

There are also calls for accountability regarding player selection.

Some blame Cardoso for not starting talented players like Zane Moeketsi, who is seen as a crucial asset.

Supporters argue that failing to utilize such players effectively has cost Sundowns dearly.

Critics have even gone as far as accusing Cardoso of deliberately underperforming in games against strong opponents like Pyramids FC, though such claims lack concrete evidence.

Others urge fans to give credit to Pyramids, acknowledging their strength and ability to beat top South African teams fairly.

Despite the backlash, it’s important to consider that football outcomes are influenced by myriad factors, including player form, opposition quality, and tactical nuances.

While Cardoso’s tenure has been turbulent, outright accusations of sabotage seem unfair.

The pressing question remains: Will Mamelodi Sundowns’ management back Cardoso or decide to make a change?

The club is at a crossroads, with fans demanding immediate action to restore the team’s winning ways.

As the transfer window approaches and preparations for the next season begin, Sundowns’ leadership must weigh the risks and rewards of retaining Cardoso.

Stability and experience could be valuable, but so is the hunger and vision to bring trophies back to the club.

For now, Sundowns supporters remain divided—some calling for patience and support, others demanding swift changes.

The coming weeks will be critical in shaping the future direction of one of South Africa’s most successful football clubs.

Stay tuned for updates on Sundowns’ coaching situation and the latest developments from the PSL and CAF competitions.

Your thoughts and opinions are welcome as this story continues to unfold.