Miguel Cardoso Admits Sundowns’ Slow Start but Sees Chiefs as Serious Title Contenders

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has acknowledged that his team “didn’t start the season in the best way” but remains confident in their ability to compete for the Premier Soccer League title. After 11 rounds, the league remains tightly contested, with log leaders Sundowns holding only a slim advantage over Sekhukhune United, Orlando Pirates, and Kaizer Chiefs. Just four points separate Sundowns from fifth-placed AmaZulu, who have played a game fewer, showing how competitive the PSL has become this season.

Sundowns survived the weekend without losing their top spot despite drawing 1-1 with Orlando Pirates at Loftus Versfeld. Peter Shalulile’s early goal was cancelled out by Camrin Dansin, but the draw allowed Sundowns to maintain first place, aided by Sekhukhune United’s 1-0 loss to Siwelele FC. Despite holding the summit, Cardoso admits pressure is mounting, with Chiefs and Pirates close behind, each within three points of the leaders.

Speaking after the Pirates match, Cardoso praised the quality of the competition and highlighted Chiefs’ potential as serious title contenders. “I think the results are quite fair considering what we saw: a more dominant Sundowns and Pirates,” he said. “The race will have a different story and will be much more equal until the end. The league will be tough; the level has been raised. You saw both Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs making strong preseasons, going abroad to play good opponents and bringing players into their squad.”

Cardoso also noted how squad depth has improved across the league, specifically highlighting Chiefs’ recent performances. “You see Pirates making changes, and you see the difference because their depth is much bigger than in the past. You saw Chiefs; they won the game from the bench [against Durban City] with high-quality players coming in. Teams are raising the level; we didn’t start the season in the best way, we should have started in terms of the conditions we had to start in,” he added.

Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are seeking to end long title droughts, with Amakhosi last winning the PSL a decade ago and the Buccaneers not lifting it since 2012. Their improving performances, combined with smart squad additions, have added pressure on Sundowns to maintain dominance. Chiefs’ depth and ability to impact games from the bench has been a key talking point, suggesting they are capable of sustaining a title challenge throughout the season.

The PSL schedule remains intense as Sundowns, Pirates, and Chiefs prepare for midweek fixtures on Tuesday and Wednesday. With all three clubs looking to consolidate their positions at the top, the title race promises to stay highly competitive. Fans can expect further twists as the league approaches the halfway stage, with Chiefs emerging as serious contenders to challenge Masandawana’s supremacy.