Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso believes the current landscape at the top of the Betway Premiership standings will shift in the coming weeks, as a congested fixture list forces teams to adjust their strategies.
Sundowns and champions Orlando Pirates are currently tied at the top of the standings with 13 points after five rounds, with Pirates leading on goal difference.
The similar starts from both sides have led many to suggest that the title race will go down to the wire, especially given that the two are set to meet in the MTN8 final on October 10.
Cardoso, however, begs to differ
Cardoso, however, begs to differ. The Portuguese-born coach believes the landscape will change as both teams begin other commitments, including the must-win CAF Champions League qualifiers.
“I think we are going to enter the December period looking completely different to how we look now,” said Cardoso after leading his team to a 2-0 win over Milford at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday night.
“Both teams will have a heavy schedule over the next few weeks with Champions League qualifiers. Let’s hope both teams can progress and compete for something significant. Then we’ll see.”
Cardoso added that Kaizer Chiefs’ character will also
Cardoso added that Kaizer Chiefs’ character will also be tested as they begin their quest to qualify for the Confederation Cup, following their strong start to the league season.
“The pressure will be huge, knowing that in the Champions League, you must field your best players to win. That will define the teams,” Cardoso said. “But for now, it’s too early to tell – for all three teams. Kaizer Chiefs will be in the mix, for sure. Let’s see; it will be interesting.”
Before Sundowns can fully focus on defending their continental crown, they must maintain their momentum in the league, starting with their visit to Golden Arrows at the King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday (3pm).
Arrows have proven to be a tough nut
Arrows have proven to be a tough nut to crack for Sundowns this season. The two sides played to a 3-3 aggregate draw in the MTN8 semi-final, with Sundowns eventually advancing on away goals.
Given that they are meeting for the third time in two weeks, with Abafana Bes’thende eyeing revenge for their MTN8 defeat, Cardoso knows his side must be at their best.
“We need to review our previous games, especially the one we played away,” Cardoso said. “There were specific things that happened throughout that match. We need to rest most of the players because they are fatigued. We know arrows are well-rested, so we need freshness. We need to produce a good performance; it will certainly be competitive.”
Source: dailynews.co.za
