Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has issued a clear message of
composure ahead of Saturday’s high-voltage Betway Premiership encounter
with Orlando Pirates, insisting he views the Loftus Versfeld showdown as
“just another match.”
While acknowledging the public frenzy surrounding the fixture, Cardoso
emphasized a professional and disciplined approach from his team.
“We all know that classic games like this one are experienced differently by
everyone—fans, media, the league,” Cardoso stated at Thursday’s press
conference in Chloorkop. “But for coaches, it’s just another match. Our job
is to prepare the same way: study the opponent and understand how they’ve
developed.”
The two rivals have played to draws in both of their meetings this season,
but Cardoso expects a different dynamic this weekend. He also highlighted
the importance of officiating, adding, “Both teams have evolved. I just
hope, in terms of safety, that everything goes well and that the referees
rise to the level of such a big occasion.”
Expressing full confidence in his squad’s mentality, the coach also made a
rallying cry to the fans, urging them to create a vibrant atmosphere. “I
hope our fans come in numbers. These games deserve that energy. We want to
put on a great football show.”
