Miguel Cardoso Builds Momentum at Mamelodi Sundowns After AFCON Break

After months of speculation during the AFCON break, Miguel Cardoso has started the New Year by strengthening his grip at Mamelodi Sundowns. The Portuguese coach marked his 60th match in charge with a solid 2-0 win over Orbit College FC as domestic football resumed on Monday.

The victory carried added weight. It returned Sundowns to the top of the Betway Premiership standings, a position they are guaranteed to hold at least until Saturday when Orlando Pirates face Sekhukhune United. It also reinforced the steady progress Cardoso has made since taking over at Chloorkop.

Cardoso has now been in charge for just over 400 days. In that period, he has overseen six blocks of 10 matches across multiple competitions. These include the Betway Premiership, CAF Champions League, Nedbank Cup, Carling Knockout, MTN8, and the FIFA Club World Cup. His ability to manage demands across different tournaments has become a defining feature of his tenure.

One of Cardoso’s most notable achievements came early. He guided Sundowns to the CAF Champions League final on his first attempt, ending a run of nine previous failures by the club. Their showing at the FIFA Club World Cup was also dignified and competitive, reinforcing Sundowns’ status on the global stage.

While the league title already sits in the trophy cabinet, domestic cup success has remained challenging. This has been a familiar theme even before Cardoso’s arrival. Despite that, his overall results remain strong.

From 60 matches, Cardoso has recorded 37 wins. That translates to a 62 percent win rate, a figure that stands out in the context of South African football. He has suffered only six defeats in open play, highlighting his team’s consistency and resilience.

When compared with past coaches, the numbers remain favorable. Pitso Mosimane posted a lower win percentage during his early spell, having taken over a club in crisis. As a stand-alone head coach, Rulani Mokwena achieved a slightly higher win rate, placing Cardoso firmly among the most effective figures to lead the club.

Despite these statistics, Cardoso’s reign continues to divide opinion among supporters and analysts. Expectations at Sundowns remain high, and every result faces intense scrutiny. Still, the data points to steady progress and competitive balance.

Sundowns now turn their focus to continental action. They face Al Hilal in the CAF Champions League on Friday at 20:00. The match represents another key test as Cardoso targets completing his first full season in charge with momentum and silverware still within reach.