Thabo Cele praises Miguel Cardoso after Mamelodi Sundowns MTN8 victory

Thabo Cele praised head coach Miguel Cardoso after making his Mamelodi Sundowns debut in the 2-0 MTN8 final win over Orlando Pirates. The victory ended a four-year wait for the trophy and came just days after a league win over the same rivals, a result that kept Sundowns top of the Premier Soccer League with 20 points from eight games. This recent form, with the team averaging 2.5 goals per game in their last four matches, has been built on a foundation of defensive solidity, conceding only three goals in that period. The team's overall stats show a squad hitting its stride at the perfect time.

Cele, who joined the club last month, highlighted the Portuguese-born tactician's intense methods as key to the team's success. "He’s that man, who’s very passionate and very intent and always challenging us to improve," Cele said. The midfielder explained that Cardoso constantly pushes the squad to do more, a philosophy that is forging a strong sense of brotherhood at Chloorkop. Cele noted the coach's focus on goal minutes, demanding high-intensity contributions from every player from the first whistle to the last, a discipline that was evident in the final.

How the final was won

Teboho Mokoena and Iqraam Rayners scored the goals that secured the trophy, with Rayners converting a late penalty. Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams was also credited with making incredible saves during the match. The win was dedicated to the memory of Jayden Adams, adding a deep personal resonance to the landmark moment for the Yellow Nation.

Chairman Thlopie Motsepe reflected on the team's evolving style, noting they have added defensive steel to their traditional 'shoe, shine and piano' attacking flair. He said there were moments in the final where they needed to firm up and focus, thanking supporters for their understanding as the team builds patiently. The squad showed immense character to weather a late onslaught from Pirates, with the defensive effort proving key. This blend of style and substance is now the hallmark of their play as they look to stay atop the standings.

With the MTN8 secured, Mamelodi Sundowns now turn their attention to maintaining their one-point lead at the summit of the Premier Soccer League. Their next challenge in the fixtures list is an away trip to face 14th-placed Richards Bay on Tuesday, 13 October, a match where they will aim to extend their unbeaten run and consolidate their position.

The report in full is at Dailysports