On the eve of the CAF Champions League final first-leg tie at Loftus Versfeld, Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso displayed a strong sense of positivity and self-belief, asserting his team are thoroughly prepared to face Egyptian side Pyramids FC.
The two-legged final promises to be a tactical battle, with Cardoso emphasising the similarities in style between Pyramids and previously faced North African giants Al Ahly FC and Esperance de Tunis.
In yesterday’s pre-match conference, Cardoso reflected on the intense competition the Brazilians have endured en route to the final.
“We had two difficult games in the semi-finals (against Al Ahly FC) and two challenging encounters in the quarter-finals (against Esperance de Tunis),” he outlined.
“The level of Pyramids is similar, but their characteristics differ; nonetheless, the difficulty will be comparable.”
This sentiment resonates with Sundowns’ players and fans alike, especially as they aim to become the first South African club to claim the continent’s blue-riband trophy for a second time, having previously triumphed in 2016 under coach Pitso Mosimane.
Cardoso has meticulously studied Pyramids and expressed a cautious optimism.
“We know that we are a strong team when we play with energy, desire, passion, quality, and intentionality,” he said.
Hlompho Kekana, Ronwen Williams and Kat Malebana share their thoughts on the new #TotalEnergiesCAFCL trophy. 🏆
What do you think of the new-look trophy Masandawana? 👇#Sundowns #RabatsenaGape pic.twitter.com/PkHe7MLJOp
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) May 23, 2025
“We must arrive for this first game with that capacity.”
He also stressed the importance of executing a well thought out game-plan, stating that understanding both their tactics and how to counter Pyramids will be vital to their success.
While acknowledging the pressure of playing in a final, Cardoso conveyed a sense of pride in the journey that has brought the team this far.
“There’s a moody sense of responsibility,” he conceded, “which is significant for everyone involved – players, management, and fans alike.
“However, there’s also a profound happiness in knowing we are now among the two best teams in Africa.”
This blend of pressure and pride is something the Masandawana squad must navigate as they prepare to replicate their past continental success.
“Whatever happens in the first leg will shape the dynamic of the return match,” Cardoso added.
“Therefore, it’s imperative that we approach this initial game with the right mentality and strategy.”
One last session before we go all in for African glory. 🙌#Sundowns #TotalEnergiesCAFCL #RabatsenaGape pic.twitter.com/qZTwmWmxxa
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) May 23, 2025
His detailed preparations reflect a commitment to excellence, aiming to leverage their experience against North African opponents, who have different playing styles to Sundowns.
“Sometimes we try to separate the north from us in the south. There is a difference in culture in the football we play. In North Africa, there is a lot of ambience and vibe in the stadium,” said Cardoso.
“But don’t forget that inside each club, there is also some identity, something that comes from the past and makes the club what they are.
“Esperance has nothing to do with Pyramids. Pyramids have nothing to do with MC Alger.”
Over the past few months, Sundowns have displayed a remarkable resurgence on the pitch, characterised by their well-rounded squad.
There are a whole host of Bafana Bafana stars such as goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, defenders Khuliso Mudau, Grant Kekana and Aubrey Modiba, midfielders Tehoho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas, and striker Iqraam Rayners – not forgetting stalwart captain Themba Zwane
The depth of talent available allows the team to rotate players effectively without compromising performance on match-day.
The Brazilians are the slight favourites, yet the unpredictability of football means that complacency could be their undoing.
With memories of their last season’s group-stage victories against the Egyptian team still fresh, Sundowns will use these past triumphs as a psychological advantage.
