Mpangase Raises Alarm Over Sundowns Under Cardoso

Former Mamelodi Sundowns defender Phelelani Mpangase has shared strong views on the club’s current direction under head coach Miguel Cardoso. His comments come at a time when some Masandawana supporters are questioning recent performances. After 13 league matches, Sundowns have 26 points. At the same stage last season, the team had already reached 30 points. They now sit second on the table behind Orlando Pirates. For a club known for dominance, this shift has drawn scrutiny.

Mpangase believes the bigger issue goes beyond results. He feels Sundowns no longer play with the identity that once defined them. During the Rulani Mokwena era, the team built attacks confidently from the back. There was variety in the first phase of play and clear structure in midfield. Players rotated positions and used short passes to draw opponents in. That movement allowed Sundowns to control games and exploit space effectively.

According to Mpangase, those tactical elements are now missing. He described the current style as poor and lacking imagination. Sundowns no longer dictate tempo or dominate possession in the same way. When the team struggles, it also affects confidence across the squad. Mpangase believes this decline reduces the overall impact Sundowns players have when they step into international duty. In his view, strong club form has always been key to consistent national team performances.

He warned that continued struggles could affect Bafana Bafana, though he acknowledged a current positive. Orlando Pirates are performing at a high level and supplying in form players to the national team. That contribution has helped Bafana progress in recent matches. Mpangase stressed that national teams benefit when players come from clubs that are winning and tactically sharp. If Sundowns want to regain influence, they must rediscover their structure and authority. For Mpangase, improvement at club level remains vital for both domestic success and national pride.