Coach Miguel Cardoso’s half-time adjustments to his “Yellow Machine” proved pivotal in securing a 2–0 Betway Premiership victory over Cape Town City on Saturday at the Cape Town Stadium.
Following a challenging first half — during which Mamelodi Sundowns scored just once despite dominating possession — Cardoso’s tactical changes bore fruit after the break, with his side doubling their tally.
Sundowns looked far slicker in the second half, clearly showing Cardoso had instructed a more assertive approach. Sundowns created several more scoring opportunities, though they only managed one additional goal to show for their efforts.
Late in the second half, Cardoso made five substitutions in quick succession, drawing a rousing cheer from the Yellow Nation for fan favourite Themba Zwane, who came on to replace first-half scorer Iqraam Rayners.
Saturday’s result moves Sundowns tantalisingly close to an eighth consecutive Betway Premiership title — a remarkable testament to their dominance in South African football. Cardoso expressed his satisfaction with the quality of the performance.
“Amazing, and again a very good performance. Not an easy game because the first half was quite tricky,” said Cardoso.
“We had to correct our positioning at half-time, and it was well received. In the second half, I think we coped even better, and what followed were beautiful goals and a strong display.”
“The boys are fighting so hard for what they want — the title. We are committed to every match, and now it’s on to the next one, and the next. We’ll try to get it.
“We need to respect everyone, because the next opponent, Chippa United, will again be tough.”
Cardoso credited the heart of Sundowns’ performances to team spirit and humility. He highlighted ‘Player of the Match’ Marcelo Allende as an embodiment of the squad’s synergy.
“I think we are a humble team. Humility is not a bad value — though not too much of it,” said Cardoso.
“If it’s excessive, of course it’s not right. But having it in the right sense, understanding the step-by-step, is how you build a career — by working hard.
“That’s what my boys are doing, and Marcelo is one of them. He is a high-quality player, but it’s beautiful to see how they all remain humble.
“I’m a very proud coach — proud of the club where I work, proud of the family that supports this club. I’m proud of the values we cultivate, and also proud of the work of the boys and my staff.”
Best 12th man in the world and we heard you from the first minute to the last 👏
Your support does not go unnoticed 💙#iamCityFC pic.twitter.com/cWQjonxTu1
— Cape Town City FC (@CapeTownCityFC) May 4, 2025
With four league matches remaining — each now treated like a final — Cardoso urged focus.
The win lifts Sundowns to 61 points after 24 matches. They may only need two more victories to secure an unassailable lead at the top of the table. Second-placed Orlando Pirates have 49 points from 22 games.
If Pirates drop even a single point in their remaining six fixtures, Sundowns will win the league — provided they do not drop points in their remaining four.
Sundowns host Chippa United at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday. Chippa will aim to upset the defending champions and boost their bid for a Top 8 finish. Following that clash, the Brazilians return to Loftus five days later to take on Stellenbosch FC.
