Cardoso Expresses Disappointment in Sundowns Fans After Stalemate with Al Ahly
Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has voiced his disappointment with the club’s supporters following their 0-0 draw against Al Ahly in Saturday’s CAF Champions League encounter at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
In a post-match briefing, Cardoso praised his players for a disciplined performance but took issue with the atmosphere in the stands, calling out sections of the home crowd for a lack of energy and support during critical moments of the game.
“I expected more from our fans tonight,” Cardoso said. “This is a Champions League fixture, and the players need to feel the passion from the stands. Instead, there were times when the silence was louder than the cheers.”
The draw leaves Sundowns in a tight position ahead of the second leg, with the away trip to Cairo now a must-win or must-score affair. Despite dominating possession and creating several promising chances, the Brazilians failed to convert, while Al Ahly held firm defensively.
Cardoso, who took charge earlier this year, emphasized the importance of unity between players and supporters in continental competitions. “We need to be one. The fans are our twelfth player. Without their energy, it’s like playing with a man down.”
The result keeps Sundowns’ hopes of progressing alive, but Cardoso's remarks highlight growing concerns about home support in high-stakes matches.
Sundowns will now shift their focus to domestic action before heading to Egypt for the crucial return leg
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