Miguel Cardoso Sets the Tone for Sundowns Ahead of Remo Stars Second Leg

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has sent a clear message ahead of the CAF Champions League second leg against Nigerian side Remo Stars. After a commanding 5-1 victory in the first leg, Cardoso is focused on maintaining intensity and discipline to secure progression to the group stages.

The first-leg win in Nigeria was a strong statement from Sundowns, who were runners-up in last season’s competition. The result also provided relief for Cardoso, who has faced pressure over the team’s performances and style of play.

Speaking to the media in Nigeria, Cardoso praised his players’ tactical awareness. “We took it very seriously. The first goal we scored is in one space, we knew we could use to find a free player. It’s not easy to play against a team that has man-to-man marking all over the pitch. We had to find the pass break through a lot of the time, so find the third man so that we can find the free player. I think the players understood very well what we put in work since we prepare for this match,” he said.

Cardoso also highlighted the difficulty of scoring five goals against Nigerian champions. “To score five goals against a team that is champions of Nigeria is not easy. Of course, we could not have conceded any, but I think it’s fair to take this result. We respect football and to respect football, we need to go for the second match with the approach as serious as possible. The qualifying round is not finished. For sure Mamelodi Sundowns will be as serious in the second match as we were today.”

Sundowns now return home for the second leg, carrying a comfortable lead but aware that the tie is far from over. The club’s objective remains reaching the Champions League group stages and ultimately competing for the trophy. Cardoso’s emphasis on preparation and tactical execution shows that Sundowns will approach the home fixture with the same intensity they displayed in Nigeria.

The second leg against Remo Stars is scheduled for this weekend, with Sundowns aiming to confirm their dominance and secure a spot in the group stage. Cardoso’s message is clear: complacency will not be tolerated, and every player will be expected to perform at the highest level.