Mamelodi Sundowns news today: Cardoso reacts to defeat, Downs reach semis, and Pirates send warning

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Here’s a live round-up of the latest Mamelodi Sundowns stories from the last 24 hours, featuring CAF Champions League drama, coach reactions, and major developments across the PSL.

Follow live Mamelodi Sundowns news here:

Cardoso unhappy despite semi-final qualification

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has admitted his side fell below expectations despite reaching the CAF Champions League semi-finals.

Miguel Cardoso, Mamelodi Sundowns boss
Miguel Cardoso – Photo by Mamelodi Sundowns

Sundowns lost 2-0 to Stade Malien in Bamako but progressed 3-2 on aggregate. Cardoso criticised his team’s slow start and poor understanding of the opposition’s tactical approach, particularly in the first half.

Mamelodi Sundowns book semi-final spot and cash in

Masandawana’s dominant 3-0 first-leg win ultimately proved decisive, sealing their passage into the last four of Africa’s premier club competition.

The qualification also comes with a financial boost, with Sundowns set to pocket around R20 million in prize money.

Aubrey Modiba, Mamelodi Sundowns vs Stade Malien in the CAF Champions League.
Aubrey Modiba. Photo: Mamelodi Sundowns

Esperance test awaits in semi-finals

Sundowns will now face Espérance de Tunis in the semi-finals, with history not favouring the South African champions against the Tunisian giants.

Cardoso reflects on tactical struggles

Cardoso further admitted his side were caught off guard by Stade Malien’s tactical changes, which introduced more pace in attack and disrupted Sundowns’ rhythm.

The Portuguese coach pointed to a lack of intensity and organisation early in the match as key factors behind the defeat.

Pirates send statement with six-goal display

Elsewhere, Orlando Pirates delivered a strong message in the PSL title race with a 6-0 thrashing of TS Galaxy.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou hit back at critics, praising his players’ commitment, while Relebohile Mofokeng stole the show with a hat-trick.

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou. Image – Pirates

Stay with us for more breaking Mamelodi Sundowns updates, reactions, and live coverage throughout the day.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Editor Site Coordinator

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Chief Editor at Soccernet NG, Afrik Foot Nigeria & South Africa. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.