Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has praised his side’s tactical discipline. They came from behind to beat RB Leipzig 3-1 in an exhibition match at Lucas Moripe Stadium.
The result added another strong international performance to Sundowns’ impressive run this season, coming shortly after their continental success.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS 3-1 RB LEIPZIG
The German visitors initially took the lead in the first half. But the South African champions responded strongly after the break to turn the match around and secure a confident win.
While the scoreline reflected a comeback, Cardoso’s focus after the game was not on the result alone. It was on how his team controlled different phases of the match and adapted under pressure.
Cardoso explained that the first half was built on structure and discipline. His players showed maturity even when under pressure from a high-level European opponent.
“I think the first half was very good in terms of compromise from the team. They tried to be always organised and have the ball as best as possible. We saw Denis giving the strongest example of how to keep the ball. He was being always available to play under big pressure,” Cardoso told SABC Sport.
He added that his instructions were focused on balance in attack. Cardoso says made sure the team did not expose themselves unnecessarily while trying to play forward.
“You saw, a lot of numbers in the front. But I told the boys they have to enjoy it and profit. I said it will be better to suffer a goal from a mistake than from a throw in the front that can give a counter-attack and then the excitement came at halftime.
FREEDOM TO PLAY
At the break, Cardoso says the message shifted slightly. He emphasised maintaining rhythm while allowing players more freedom to express themselves.
“They were feeling so comfortable, I told them the guys lets keep the rhythm, dynamic, discipline. I said let’s enjoy the game. Let’s try to bring the game as much as possible to our intensity,” he added.
Cardoso was particularly pleased with how the squad released pressure and played with more flow as the game progressed.
“They released energy, let it flow, it’s a match without responsibility. It was a match with responsibility but no pressure with the result. We had a beautiful, beautiful game with a lot of boys showing Bennet with a fantastic bend. Kutlwano was good in the first half. Well there is no space to speak about individuals when you see such a beautiful match like today,” Cardoso added.