Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has explained his decision to substitute Thabo Cele and Fawaaz Basadien at half-time during the Brazilians’ victory over Marumo Gallants, saying he could not afford to take unnecessary risks in a crucial knockout match.

Both players received yellow cards in the first half, prompting Cardoso to withdraw them at the break and introduce Aubrey Modiba and Marcelo Allende.

The Portuguese coach said the decision was necessary to protect his team from the possibility of finishing the match with 10 players.

“I made two subs because both players had yellow cards, and you cannot play a knockout match with ten players on the pitch,” Cardoso explained.

“I didn’t want to play any risks on this match. I knew very well the importance of this match.”

The victory was particularly significant for Sundowns, who were eliminated from the same competition by Gallants last season. Another defeat against the same opponents would have compounded the disappointment following their shock CAF Champions League loss to Wiliete SC.

Sundowns took the lead in the 20th minute through Siyanda Ndlovu, who produced an excellent finish from a tight angle after being set up by Iqraam Rayners.

However, the changes at half-time, combined with the inclusion of several players who do not regularly feature in the starting line-up, affected Sundowns’ rhythm after the break. Goalkeeper Ricardo Goss was forced to make an important save before the hour mark to help preserve the advantage.

Cardoso acknowledged that the team was still dealing with the emotional impact of its recent continental disappointment.

“It came mostly from the emotional moment,” he said, referring to the difficult days following the Champions League defeat.

He added that the players needed to come together, maintain the right attitude and find a way to secure an important victory despite the circumstances.

Rather than criticising individual performances, Cardoso praised the collective effort and determination shown by his squad.

“I think what was important today was that the team stuck together and fought together to achieve an important victory,” he said.

The result keeps Sundowns’ campaign in the competition alive as they turn their attention to the quarterfinal stage.

The quarterfinal draw is scheduled for Wednesday, following the match between Durban City and Stellenbosch FC.

For Cardoso, the victory was about more than progression: it was also an opportunity for Sundowns to respond after a difficult week and avoid another painful setback against Gallants.

Source;https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2115355100319302031