Cardoso explains why he trusts saleng at sundowns

cardoso backs saleng with vote of confidence as sundowns winger fights for regular game time

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA — 28 October 2026 — Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has highlighted the trust he has in Monnapule Saleng after choosing to introduce the winger during the club’s encounter against Marumo Gallants.

Cardoso’s decision was significant because Sundowns could have brought on a more defensively minded player to protect their advantage and close out the match. Instead, the Portuguese tactician opted to give Saleng an opportunity, demonstrating that the winger remains part of his plans.

The decision offers encouragement for Saleng as he looks to establish himself at Sundowns following his move from Orlando Pirates.

For a coach managing a club with Sundowns’ ambitions, substitutions are not simply about replacing tired players. They are also tactical decisions that must balance the need to protect a result with the opportunity to maintain an attacking threat.

Cardoso’s willingness to introduce Saleng in that situation suggests that he believes the winger can contribute beyond his ability to create chances and threaten opponents in the final third.

An attacking player can also help a team retain possession, carry the ball into advanced areas and force opponents to remain cautious rather than committing everyone forward.

That appears to be the significance of Cardoso’s decision. Rather than automatically choosing a defensive replacement, he trusted Saleng to help the team manage the closing stages of the contest.

For the player, such confidence could prove important as he works to secure a more consistent role in a competitive Sundowns squad.

Saleng arrived at Sundowns with a reputation for his pace, dribbling ability and capacity to change the course of a match through individual brilliance.

His previous performances at Orlando Pirates demonstrated the attacking qualities that made him an influential player in South African football.

However, joining Sundowns brings a different challenge. The club possesses considerable depth across its attacking positions, meaning every opportunity to impress the technical team matters.

Saleng must therefore use the minutes he receives to demonstrate consistency, tactical discipline and an ability to make a meaningful contribution when called upon.

Cardoso’s decision could provide a positive indication that the winger has an opportunity to earn greater responsibility, although regular selection will ultimately depend on his performances in training and competitive matches.

Sundowns continue to demand high standards from their players as they compete across domestic and continental competitions. That environment means Saleng will need to take advantage of every opportunity offered to him.

Cardoso’s approach also highlights the importance of maintaining competition within the squad, with attacking players expected to contribute to the team’s overall tactical plan.

Source https://x.com/Soccer_Laduma/status/2115327122667348313

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