Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso is facing mounting pressure after the club’s penalty shootout elimination from the MTN8 at the hands of Orlando Pirates on Saturday.
The Brazilians crashed out 4-1 on penalties at Lucas Moripe Stadium after the two sides were locked at 2-2 on aggregate over the semi-final tie. It was a disappointing result for a Sundowns side that has been accustomed to success both domestically and on the continent.
Former midfielder Charles Motlohi has been among the most vocal critics, openly questioning Cardoso’s methods and calling for the club’s hierarchy to part ways with the Portuguese coach.
"I hardly remember Sundowns completing two touches on Saturday, and I was left wondering what was happening," Motlohi told KickOff.
"When Lebo Mothiba came on, he didn’t touch the ball even once. I thought to myself, this coach must go. He is trying to change our system and is altering our identity."
Motlohi did not hold back in his criticism, also pointing fingers at Sporting Director Flemming Berg for the current struggles.
"I also hold the Sporting Director, Flemming Berg, responsible for everything that is going wrong right now. He should leave along with the coach. I have never seen Sundowns being dominated in a match, but that’s exactly what happened on Saturday. Pirates were all over Sundowns," he continued.
The ex-midfielder warned that Sundowns could be headed for a barren campaign if swift changes are not made.
The calls for Cardoso’s dismissal add to growing concerns from sections of the Sundowns faithful, who have voiced frustration at the team’s style of play and lack of dominance in recent matches.
Sundowns will need to regroup quickly, with little time to reflect on their MTN8 disappointment. They are back in action on Wednesday evening when they visit Kaizer Chiefs in a Betway Premiership showdown at FNB Stadium (19:30).
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