Miguel Cardoso Under Pressure as Sundowns Target Big Signings Post FIFA Club World Cup

Miguel Cardoso

Miguel Cardoso Under Pressure as Sundowns Target Big Signings Post FIFA Club World Cup

Festus Chuma 11:32 - 03.07.2025

Sundowns back Miguel Cardoso despite CAF final defeat, with plans for big signings after their FIFA Club World Cup campaign.

After Mamelodi Sundowns finally wrapped up a longer and more demanding season than usual, the club’s management has offered fresh insight into where they stand regarding head coach Miguel Cardoso’s performance.

Cardoso, who has been in charge of the reigning South African champions for around six months, came under severe scrutiny following the team’s disappointing defeat in the CAF Champions League final. The Brazilians fell to Egyptian side Pyramids FC, who reached the final for the first time in their short history.

PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports

The loss was particularly hard to swallow for supporters and pundits alike, with many questioning Cardoso’s bold decision to leave influential captain Themba Zwane out of both legs of the showpiece occasion.

Nevertheless, according to Soccer Laduma, Sundowns’ hierarchy is still firmly behind the Portuguese coach despite the criticism that followed the continental heartbreak.

While their continental ambitions fell short, Sundowns delivered a commendable showing during their FIFA Club World Cup campaign.

Drawn in Group F alongside Korean giants Ulsan HD, German powerhouses Borussia Dortmund and Brazilian heavyweights Fluminense, the Tshwane side held their own. They ultimately finished third with four points but were left frustrated after failing to score in a goalless final match that cost them a spot in the last 16.

Backing the Coach Despite Champions League Setback

It is understood that Sundowns’ management had hoped for a deeper run in the Club World Cup, but remain encouraged by the progress Cardoso has overseen in a relatively short space of time.

“Competing against those clubs with much bigger budgets and deeper squads was always going to be difficult,” a source close to the club shared.

“But the team showed resilience, and the players believe in what the coach is trying to build.”

Indeed, the club appears determined to give Cardoso the tools he needs to go one better next season.

According to Soccer Laduma, Sundowns are leading the chase for Stellenbosch FC’s reliable left back Fawaaz Basadien. Reinforcements from the South American and European markets are also high on the agenda as the club eyes more quality and depth in key positions.

“Management is pleased with the work Cardoso has done and will be backing him in the transfer window to ensure Sundowns have another go at trying to win the Champions League,” Soccer Laduma reported.

High Expectations for Domestic and Continental Glory

Cardoso has also succeeded in fostering a positive atmosphere within the squad, despite the disappointment of falling just short on the continent.

There is a strong belief that the group is capable of returning stronger and hungrier to add more silverware to the already impressive trophy cabinet in Chloorkop.

The challenge for Cardoso, however, will be to deliver more than just domestic dominance.

Mamelodi Sundowns have become so accustomed to winning the DStv Premiership title that anything less than progress on the continental stage will likely be seen as falling short.

Pressure will inevitably intensify when the new season begins, but for now, the coach has the support of those who matter most.

His task is to reward that faith with results that will silence critics and restore the club to the summit of African football.