Miguel Cardoso explains decision to sign new Sundowns contract

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says his recent contract extension is further evidence of the alignment between himself and the club over their vision for the future.

While the Brazilians never officially confirmed the details of the new agreement, the Portuguese mentor has explained why he committed his future to the club following their CAF Champions League triumph.

Cardoso is now preparing Sundowns for Saturday’s MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates at Moses Mabhida Stadium, where he will be chasing another trophy.

Speaking ahead of the showpiece event in Durban, Cardoso opened up about the agreement and his decision to stay.

“Everything was done during the summer, and it’s clear that both the club and myself share the same values in terms of how we see the game in South Africa and the continent.

The technical staff is happy and comfortable at the club, and the club also showed happiness and satisfaction towards us.” He suggested that the finer details of the deal were also slightly altered.

On facing Pirates for the first time in a cup final since his appointment, Cardoso acknowledged the significance of ending their rivals’ dominance.

“The club has played many finals against Pirates, but this will be our first time as coaches, and we understand very well the importance of such a game and what is at stake because it means so much for the fans.

Whatever pressure comes from the outside, we will deal with in a natural way and prepare for this game like any other fixture against Pirates.” Cardoso also made a plea to the match officials to be at their best given the magnitude of a grand final between the league champions and runners-up from last season.

“I hope the referees will be the best team on the field because that will make me feel very satisfied, but regarding football, Mamelodi Sundowns always strive to be the best team on the field.

We want to show a great image to the world of South African football and I hope we also set a good example of how a final should be played between two great rivals.” VIDEO | Sundowns ready to dethrone Pirates as MTN8 champions: