Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says alleged Komphela-Bianchi altercation is not a major issue

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has said the alleged altercation between senior coach Steve Komphela and Wiliete mentor Beto Bianchi is not a major issue and will not affect his side ahead of Friday’s return leg.

The incident took place after the first leg of their CAF Champions League qualifying tie in Angola on Sunday. Bianchi was allegedly kicked in a sensitive area while leaving the dressing room and was later taken to hospital. He has since recovered.

Speaking at a media briefing, Cardoso described what happened as part of the normal emotions that come with a tough football match. He insisted the matter would not distract his players or change how Sundowns prepare for the second leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

The two teams drew 0-0 in Lubango, leaving the tie finely balanced. Sundowns will now look to finish the job in front of their own supporters on Friday night. Cardoso made it clear that the focus must stay on the football and that he does not want the off-field story to grow bigger than it needs to be.

He said small things can sometimes become big things when people give them too much attention. In his view, the situation has already received more coverage than it deserves. Cardoso added that the clubs were well received in Angola and that both sides had built a positive relationship during the trip.

Komphela, a well-known figure in South African football, was involved in the reported scuffle near the tunnel area after the final whistle. Details of exactly what sparked the clash remain unclear, with some reports suggesting heated words were exchanged between the technical staff of both teams.

Wiliete’s side has confirmed that Bianchi needed medical attention but is now back in training ahead of the trip to Pretoria. The Angolan club has not issued a formal statement on whether it plans to take the matter further with CAF.

Sundowns have so far stayed quiet on the specifics of the incident. Cardoso’s comments are the first public response from the club’s head coach. He remains confident that the episode will have no bearing on the outcome of Friday’s match.

With qualification still to be decided, both teams know a place in the next round of the Champions League is on the line. Sundowns will hope their home advantage at Loftus Versfeld can help them progress, while Wiliete will look to cause an upset away from home.

Cardoso has urged everyone to keep the focus on the game itself rather than the events that followed the first leg. He believes his squad is ready for the challenge and that the alleged altercation will not stand in their way.

Source: https://x.com/Sowetan1981/status/2112902294391882153

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