Following a devastating 3-1 loss to USM Alger in the CAF Champions League group stage, Mamelodi Sundowns supporters rushed toward the team bus on Tuesday, yelling angrily at head coach Miguel Cardoso.

Supporters were seen yelling "Cardoso must go" at the Portuguese strategist as he ascended the steps into the car with his kit bag slung over his shoulder and his eyes forward in video that went viral on social media. Along with thousands of spectators from Tshwane lounges and taverns, the Loftus-reared faithful who travelled showed their collective indignation at a performance they characterised as tactically bankrupt and cowardly.

A request for comment on the fan dissatisfaction was turned down by Sundowns Communications Director Thulani Thuswa, who directed reporters to a terse club statement acknowledging the "disappointing result" and promising a complete team evaluation prior to the next continental match. At the final whistle, no member of the technical staff spoke to the cameras, therefore there was no public accountability for the supporters.

After Rhulani Mokwena left, Cardoso took over as head coach of Sundowns in July 2024, taking over a team full of talented players from the continent. The 48-year-old came with a stellar resume from Portuguesa football, but his term has come under increasing scrutiny from a fan base used to strong CAF runs under former administrations. Sundowns were under tremendous pressure in their group rankings following Tuesday's defeat.

A Sundowns fan in a faded yellow jersey flattened his palm against the bus glass as it pulled away, staring through his own reflection at the coaching staff seated inside without blinking or turning away. This image perfectly captured the division between the dressing room and the stands amid the commotion and noise outside the stadium concourse.

It's completely unclear if Sundowns management will defend Cardoso for the duration of the CAF campaign or take action in response to the growing anger among supporters. There is no room for error in the club's upcoming group engagement, but the fundamental question that is plaguing all Brazileiros supporters tonight is more stark: does the man driving this bus truly know where it is going?

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