Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has shared his thoughts on the CAF Champions League format, insisting that clubs must respect the rules in place and focus on competing rather than questioning the regulations.

Masandawana won the continental title last season but have still had to navigate the preliminary rounds as they attempt to defend their crown. Angolan side Williete SC stand between the South African champions and a place in the group stages, making the upcoming encounter an important test for Cardoso and his players.

The format differs from the UEFA Champions League, where the reigning champions do not have to compete in the qualifying rounds. This has raised questions about why African champions must still negotiate the preliminary stages after winning the competition in the previous season.

However, Cardoso believes every competition has its own regulations, and teams must understand and respect them. The Portuguese coach referred to Spanish tactician Juanma Lillo, who previously worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola and coached in several countries.

Cardoso explained that Lillo had taught him an important lesson about football being played according to the rules that govern the game. He said he did not have a particular opinion about defending champions being required to play preliminary matches because the regulations were already in place.

The Sundowns coach also compared the CAF Champions League format with South African domestic cup competitions. He highlighted the MTN8, Carling Knockout and Nedbank Cup, explaining that each tournament has different rules for selecting participating teams and determining match-ups.

Cardoso stressed that Sundowns would continue to work within the existing regulations and do their best to achieve their objectives. The club will now concentrate on overcoming Williete SC and securing qualification for the group stages as they pursue back-to-back continental titles.

Meanwhile, former Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana midfielder Bongani Zungu has appeared on a billboard in India as the face of Tornado, a company that sponsors the Super League Kerala.

The South African footballer’s appearance on the billboard highlights his growing profile beyond the local game. Zungu, who has played for several clubs during his career, continues to attract attention from football supporters. Tornado’s association with the Kerala-based competition provides another platform for the midfielder to expand his presence in the international football market.

Zungu's appearance is also an example of how South African football personalities can gain visibility in markets outside the country. His connection with Tornado places him alongside a competition in India that is seeking to build its profile, while giving the former Sundowns midfielder another opportunity to remain visible to football supporters internationally.

As Sundowns continue their continental campaign, Zungu's billboard appearance provides a separate talking point for South African football fans, highlighting the different paths players can take to maintain their presence in the sport.

Source: IDiskiTimes