Sundowns' Cardoso delivers defiant message to critics after Stellenbosch conquest

In a dramatic post-match scene, Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso made a strong statement to his critics following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Stellenbosch FC on Saturday at Athlone Stadium.

The outcome elevated Sundowns to the top of the Betway Premiership table and came as a much-needed boost for Cardoso, who has faced mounting pressure after a lacklustre goalless draw against Kaizer Chiefs in their previous outing.

Amidst the palpable tension, Cardoso cut short his interview just moments after delivering an impassioned defence of his team and himself, stating: “This team needs peace, needs support, and the true Mamelodi Sundowns fans should support the team.”

His abrupt exit left the interviewer brimming with questions, particularly about striker Peter Shalulile's goalscoring feat.

The win was not just crucial for the points; it was a vital morale booster for Cardoso and his squad. After recent criticism, including calls from some fans for his dismissal, the coach exhaled a sigh of relief, labelling the result as “massive.”

He acknowledged the importance of the win in restoring faith among supporters and alleviating the growing storm around his management.

“I think that we should’ve scored more than one goal in the first half,” he reflected, pointing to missed opportunities that could have added further comfort to the scoreline. He also made strategic adjustments to accommodate injury absences, specifically noting the limitations caused by a lack of midfield cohesion.

Reflecting on the performance of Stellenbosch FC, Cardoso praised their efforts but remained adamant that Sundowns demonstrated their quality despite the challenges.

“It’s important to pass a message to the outside to give peace to the team,” he reiterated, underscoring his resolve to push back against the critics.

He concluded: “Look at the table, look where we are after five matches — after playing away at Stellenbosch, away at Kaizer Chiefs. We didn’t lose; we keep winning, and we are very well…”

On Saturday, Shalulile netted from the spot just before the stroke of half-time, and Cardoso said he will remain an important player for Sundowns.

“I want to take this opportunity to congratulate Peter,” Cardoso said at the post-match press conference.“I have been saying that he is an important player for us, and he will be until one day he decides to leave the club. Let’s hope it is far away.He scored the goal that gives him the highest position as a top scorer in the history of the PSL. So, congratulations to him.”

Despite scoring that crucial goal, Cardoso cautioned that competition for attacking places in the team remains tight — but affirmed that everyone would be given a fair chance.

Shalulile on Saturday officially etched his name into the record books as the Premier Soccer League’s (PSL) all-time leading goalscorer. The Namibian striker achieved this significant milestone after netting his 130th goal — a remarkable feat that surpasses Siyabonga Nomvethe’s long-standing record of 129 goals.

This momentous occasion comes just a fortnight after Shalulile equalled Nomvethe's record with a goal in the 2-0 victory over Magesi.