Downs shift focus to Carling Cup, league, and Super Cup after painful defeat

MAMELODI Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has told his players to turn CAF Champions League pain into fuel for the trophies still on offer.

Sundowns were dumped out on the away-goal rule after a 1-1 draw at Loftus Versfeld on Friday. The result ended their hopes of defending the continental crown and left the Brazilians with no time to sulk.

Cardoso knows the exit hurts, especially after the club worked so hard to become one of Africa’s most feared teams. But the Portuguese coach said Sundowns must quickly lift their heads and focus on the battles still ahead.

“For the rest of the season, we have to focus even more on the competitions we still have to play,” Cardoso said.

“We already have a qualifying match for the Carling Cup in three days, followed by an important league match. Then we have a final to play and the African Super Cup. There are still a lot of trophies to compete for.”

The Sundowns mentor admitted that the Champions League knockout was tough for everyone at Chloorkop. It was also personal for him because of his recent run in Africa’s biggest club competition.

“Obviously, we can’t forget what it means to be out of the Champions League. It’s hard for the club and for the coaches. As you can imagine, it’s hard for me after being in three finals in a row,” he said.

“It’s also very hard for a club that was supposed to be in the group stage for 12 years in a row.”

For Cardoso, the response now matters more than the setback. He wants Masandawana to use the disappointment as motivation, not an excuse, as they chase the remaining trophies.

Sundowns have built their reputation on dominance, control and big-game belief. Their Champions League dream may be over, but Cardoso has made it clear that the season is far from finished.

If his players respond with the right mentality, the pain of Friday night could still spark a strong finish to the campaign. That’s the challenge now facing Cardoso and his wounded players.