Miguel Cardoso Frustrated as PSL Clubs Reject Sundowns’ Request for Fixture Adjustment

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has voiced frustration after four Betway Premiership clubs declined the Brazilians’ request to reschedule a league match ahead of the upcoming AFCON break. The reigning champions were seeking to ease their congested schedule in preparation for another demanding CAF Champions League campaign.

Cardoso explained that Sundowns aimed to optimise their calendar to allow players adequate rest and focused preparation for continental fixtures. “Look, you know that and we saw from last season that Sundowns had a lot of matches ahead, so we played matches in the middle of the week consistently because we believed we could go far in the Champions League as we did last year,” he said.

The Portuguese tactician emphasised the broader importance of South African clubs performing well on the African stage. “We wanted to have the weeks of the Champions League full so that we don’t overcharge our players. When a South African team plays in the Champions League, it’s not only representing the club but South African football, and it’s important everybody knows that,” Cardoso added.

Sundowns approached several teams, including those with free weekends, to accommodate the additional fixture, but none agreed. “For example, we are trying to play a match on the next weekend, so after Pirates we play on Wednesday against Galaxy, and we are going team by team in the PSL to see who can accept to play against us on Sunday. We already tried four and no one wants to play,” he revealed.

Cardoso pointed out that fixture congestion is a structural issue compared to other top African leagues. “The biggest teams in Africa don’t play in the middle of the week because their championships are structured that way. When I was with Esperance last year, we didn’t need to ask to change matches because the calendar was built to support teams in the Champions League,” he explained.

He concluded by stressing Sundowns’ commitment to representing South African football at the highest level. “We need to play the matches on the fixtures where they are. We just want to prepare properly to compete with the biggest teams in Africa and represent South African football the best way we can.” The comments highlight ongoing challenges for PSL clubs balancing domestic commitments with continental competitions, with Sundowns seeking greater flexibility to sustain success on both fronts.