The Portuguese tactician faces mounting pressure after Sundowns failed to reach the Champions League group stage, losing out to Angola’s Wiliete SC on the away-goals rule following a 1–1 aggregate draw.
The disappointment came after Sundowns reached the continental final in each of the previous three seasons, winning the title last term. Their early exit has raised questions about Cardoso’s future, with supporters expecting the club to compete for Africa’s biggest club prize.
However, the coach has urged unity within the club and challenged his players to focus on the trophies still available.
Cardoso Defends Sundowns’ Progress
Cardoso acknowledged the scale of the disappointment but pointed to the club’s recent continental record and domestic achievements as evidence that there is still plenty to play for.
The coach highlighted Sundowns’ run of three consecutive Champions League finals and their domestic success this season, which includes victories in the MTN8 and the FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup.
“We have won two trophies, and we’re leading the league in South Africa, but this one is a big knockout,” Cardoso said.
“It’s a big punch in our faces. What will make us stronger is how we’re going to react, because there are so many things to win.”
The coach also accepted that responsibility for the Champions League disappointment was shared across the club, with players and the technical team needing to reflect on what went wrong.
Marumo Gallants Clash Offers Immediate Response
Sundowns have little time to dwell on their continental disappointment, with Marumo Gallants awaiting them in the Carling Knockout Cup round of 16 on Tuesday, 27 October.
The match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium presents Cardoso’s side with an immediate opportunity to respond on the pitch and maintain their pursuit of domestic silverware.
Gallants will also draw confidence from their previous success against Sundowns in the same competition last season, when they eliminated the Tshwane club.
Cardoso has stressed the importance of approaching the match with focus and determination, warning that the team must turn its disappointment into motivation.
Sundowns Still Have Trophies to Pursue
Although the Champions League exit represents a significant setback, Sundowns remain involved in several competitions.
Their domestic league campaign continues, while the club is also preparing for the CAF Super Cup final against USM Alger, scheduled for 8 November.
Cardoso believes the team’s reaction in the coming weeks will determine how the season is remembered.
“What is going to speak for Sundowns is the greatness that will come after this defeat,” he said.
The coach has called for unity within the club as pressure increases, insisting that the players and technical staff must remain committed to one another.
Pressure Mounts Ahead of Crucial Fixtures
The clash against Marumo Gallants will be an important test for Cardoso as he attempts to steady the team following their continental disappointment.
Sundowns supporters will expect a strong response, particularly after the club’s failure to reach the Champions League group stage for the first time in more than a decade.
For Cardoso, the immediate priority is to get his team back to winning ways and demonstrate that the setback will not derail their remaining ambitions.
The coming fixtures will provide an early indication of how Sundowns respond to the pressure and whether the coach can guide the club through a difficult period.