Cardoso criticises venue change ahead of Sundowns trip to Chippa United

Mamelodi Sundowns FC manager Miguel Cardoso has voiced his displeasure at a late change of venue for their upcoming league match. The Brazilians travel to face Chippa United this Saturday, but the game has been switched to the KuGompo City stadium from the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha.

Cardoso told reporters the alteration complicates his team's schedule. "It will be a naturally tough match," the Sundowns coach said. "The change of the venue will oblige us to stay one more day."

He added a note of resignation. "It's just a pity that things are that way but I don't want to cry, they say I cry too much."

Focus on the league

The fixture comes after Sundowns strengthened their position at the top of the Betway Premiership. A 3-0 home victory over Siwelele FC at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday opened a six-point gap at the summit. Three second-half goals secured the points and maintained their perfect start to the domestic campaign.

Chippa United, known as the Chilli Boys, sit 12th in the standings with four points from five matches and are still searching for their first win of the season. The match in KuGompo City is scheduled for a 5:30pm kick-off on Saturday.

Cardoso's side must then quickly turn their attention to continental competition. Sundowns have an African Champions League group stage fixture the following weekend, making efficient travel and recovery vital.

Elsewhere in the league this weekend, the action begins on Friday with Stellenbosch FC hosting Sekhukhune United. Saturday features a 3pm clash between Kaizer Chiefs and Polokwane City, alongside AmaZulu versus Marumo Gallants in Durban. Sunday's highlight is a northern KZN derby between Milford FC and Richards Bay. Siwelele face Golden Arrows, while TS Galaxy meet Kruger United to round off the matchweek. The latest standings show Sundowns firmly in control as the only team with a perfect record after five rounds.