Miguel Cardoso has revealed that a late domestic fixture change has thrown Mamelodi Sundowns' preparations for the FIFA Intercontinental Cup into disarray. The coach said the club's schedule for the clash against Al Ahli on 19 September has been 'completely' disrupted.
The disruption stems from this Saturday's Premier Soccer League match against Chippa United. The game was originally set for Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha but was moved to Buffalo City Stadium earlier this week after the first venue did not meet league requirements. This late switch created extra travel and logistical demands for the league leaders.
Cardoso explained the impact. "We had a trip planned but the change of plans disrupts our preparations and plans for the Intercontinental Cup completely," the Sundowns manager said. The team cannot return home on the same day as the Chippa match and cannot travel the morning after, eating into the rest period planned for players before they shift focus to the continental showpiece.
With their plans upended, the squad is making the best of the situation. "All we can do is enjoy one another’s company at the hotel and maybe walk on the beach," Cardoso added. The team heads into the fixture in formidable domestic form, sitting first in the Premier Soccer League with 19 points from seven games. They are six points clear of Orlando Pirates and are on a five-game winning streak, having beaten Siwelele 3-0 last time out with goals from Kabelo Lethlaku, Sipho Ndlovu and Thabo Matthews.
Buffalo City Stadium holds positive memories for Sundowns, having clinched the Betway Premiership title there in May 2025 after a 3-0 win over the same opponents, Chippa United. The club also recently bolstered its defensive options with the signing of former Orlando Pirates right-back Deano van Rooyen. The 29-year-old signed a multi-year deal after his previous contract ended by mutual agreement, providing Cardoso with an additional option.
Sundowns will look to maintain their perfect recent form against Chippa before the quick turnaround for the Intercontinental Cup. The squad's current standings show their commanding lead at the top of the table as they handle this congested period.
