Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has warned his players against becoming complacent as they prepare to face Angolan side Williete SC in the second leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie on Friday. The Brazilians are hoping to secure a place in the group stages as they continue their attempt to defend the continental title they won last season.

Sundowns go into the return fixture with a positive result from the first leg, putting them in a favourable position to progress to the next stage. However, Cardoso has made it clear that his team cannot assume qualification is already guaranteed. He wants his players to remain focused and produce another strong performance to complete the job.

The Portuguese coach has also reminded his squad about the challenges they have faced against Angolan opposition in previous campaigns. Sundowns were eliminated by Petro de Luanda in the past, and Cardoso believes that experience should serve as a warning ahead of their meeting with Williete.

Cardoso explained that he respects the quality of the Angolan side, pointing out that Williete are at the top of their domestic league and have conceded only one goal. He believes these factors show that Sundowns must approach the encounter carefully rather than expect an easy passage into the group stages.

The coach also stressed that every match requires the right attitude and preparation. Although some games carry greater importance than others, he believes the players must treat every challenge seriously. With a place in the Champions League group stages at stake, Sundowns need to remain disciplined and avoid mistakes that could make their task more difficult.

Cardoso added that the technical team must carefully assess the available players before deciding on the starting line-up. He also wants to identify the players who can make a difference as the team looks to finish the tie successfully.

Defender Thapelo Morena has also spoken about the importance of Friday's match. He acknowledged that the previous trip to Angola did not go as Sundowns had hoped, but said the team must now concentrate on the upcoming fixture and what they can achieve.

Morena believes securing qualification is the main objective, as Sundowns want to return to the group stages and keep their title defence on track.

The Brazilians will be determined to build on last season's continental success. However, Cardoso knows that his players must first overcome Williete before they can turn their attention to the next stage of the competition.

Sundowns will therefore aim to deliver a disciplined performance on Friday and use their advantage from the first leg to secure qualification. Cardoso's message to his players is clear: they must respect their opponents, remain focused and fight until the job is complete.

Source: IDiskiTimes