Miguel Cardoso salutes Pitso Mosimane as Mamelodi Sundowns edge closer to CAF Champions League glory

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has expressed deep appreciation for the backing of club legend Pitso Mosimane as the Tshwane giants move closer to another historic run in the CAF Champions League. Sundowns secured a narrow but crucial 1-0 first-leg victory over AS FAR Rabat in Pretoria, placing them within reach of a potential second continental crown. The result has strengthened belief within the squad while also reigniting pride among supporters who continue to rally behind the team. Cardoso’s remarks highlighted the emotional connection between the club’s present ambitions and its decorated past. The moment has added extra motivation as Sundowns prepare for a decisive second leg in Morocco.

The victory itself was hard-fought and demanded discipline, patience and control from Sundowns throughout the match. A single goal proved enough to separate the two sides, but the tie remains open heading into the return fixture. AS FAR Rabat remain dangerous at home and will push hard to overturn the deficit in front of their supporters. Sundowns, however, carry the advantage of a clean sheet, which could prove vital in a high-pressure away environment. The team’s performance reflected a balance between attacking intent and defensive structure, which has become a key feature of their continental campaign. Every detail now matters as both sides prepare for a decisive showdown.

Much of the attention after the match shifted toward the emotional support received from Pitso Mosimane, the coach who famously led Sundowns to their first CAF Champions League title in 2016. His message of encouragement resonated strongly within the club, especially as the current squad pushes toward another historic achievement. Cardoso openly acknowledged the significance of that support, describing it as meaningful both personally and professionally. He noted that he had never had the opportunity to meet Mosimane but expressed admiration for his legacy at the club. The Portuguese coach also highlighted how such backing strengthens unity within the team. His response reflected respect for the past while focusing firmly on the present challenge.

Cardoso emphasised that Mosimane’s support represents more than just words, but a continued emotional link between different eras of success at Sundowns. He explained that it shows the former coach still carries the club in his heart while also standing behind the current generation. That sense of continuity has helped reinforce belief within the squad as they prepare for a difficult away leg. The Sundowns coach made it clear that unity and collective support from the broader South African football community can play a decisive role. He believes that shared energy and encouragement can influence performance at the highest level. His comments pointed to the importance of stability, belief and external backing in a demanding continental campaign.

The build-up to the second leg has now shifted focus toward mental preparation and managing pressure in a hostile environment. Sundowns understand that holding onto their advantage in Morocco will require discipline and composure over 90 intense minutes. The coaching staff has stressed the importance of teamwork, focus and emotional control as they aim to close out the tie. Cardoso has repeatedly highlighted the value of unity, not only within the squad but also from supporters and former figures of the club. The backing of a respected figure like Mosimane adds symbolic strength at a critical moment in the season. It reinforces the idea that the club’s identity is built on shared success across generations.

As the return leg approaches, Sundowns stand on the edge of another major milestone in their continental journey. The first-leg win has placed them in a strong position, but nothing is guaranteed against a determined AS FAR Rabat side. Cardoso’s appreciation for Pitso Mosimane reflects a broader sense of connection between past and present success at the club. That unity has become part of Sundowns’ identity as they continue to compete at the highest level in African football. The challenge now is to turn momentum and belief into results on foreign soil. A place in the next stage would not only move them closer to continental glory but also strengthen the legacy that both current and former coaches have helped build.