Miguel Cardoso has signed a new long-term contract with Mamelodi Sundowns FC. The deal follows a review of the successful two-year partnership between the coach and the reigning champions.
Cardoso confirmed the extension himself. "I have signed a new long-term deal with the club following a review of our relationship and success," the head coach said. The agreement arrives with the team sitting top of the Premier Soccer League, holding a one-point lead over Orlando Pirates with 23 points from nine games.
The new contract builds on a period of remarkable success. Under Cardoso, Sundowns have won the Betway Premiership, ended a decade-long wait to lift the CAF Champions League, and were recently crowned FIFA African-Asian-Pacific Cup champions. Their form this season remains formidable, with the team unbeaten and coming off a 4-1 victory over Richards Bay last weekend.
Attention now turns to adding another trophy this Saturday. Cardoso confirmed the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates is set for Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Victory would deliver an early-season cup and extend the team's current three-match winning run. The squad is bolstered by the return of key players Aubrey Modiba, Teboho Mokoena, and Bathusi Aubaas from injury ahead of the final.
Attackers Brayan León and Cassius Mailula have been instrumental. León has become the primary source for goals, while Mailula has reintegrated seamlessly into the side. Their contributions are reflected in the league standings, where Sundowns have scored 23 goals.
Cardoso's appointment was initially viewed as a solution after the club missed out on the previous season's title, but he has built upon the foundations laid by predecessors Rulani Mokwena and Manqoba Mngqithi. The club's leadership believes the partnership deserves more time regardless of Saturday's outcome. The next match at home against 11th-placed Durban City is scheduled for the first of next month.
