Sundowns coach Cardoso: Advantage or not, Orlando Pirates are a tough nut to crack

As anticipation builds for the MTN8 semi-final second leg clash between arch-rivals Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates on Saturday in Pretoria, coach Miguel Cardoso is keen to manage expectations, downplaying any advantages his team may hold.

With memories of a tightly contested first leg still fresh — in which Sundowns secured an important away goal in a 1–1 draw — the stakes are set for a high-octane encounter at home.

Reflecting on last week’s performance in Orlando, Cardoso acknowledged the challenges inherent in knockout competitions.

“It might be a cliché, but it’s a fact that matches like our competitions with knock-out rounds over two legs are always very tough, both tough,” he stated, underscoring the intensity and unpredictability that define this format.

Despite holding the advantage of a home ground and an away goal, Cardoso remains pragmatic.

“Theoretically, people can state that there's an advantage because we already played away and we were able to score one goal,” he conceded.

“However, the reality on the pitch is what truly matters during the two legs. I think that the objectivity of football is determined by what happens inside the four lines,” he added, suggesting that both teams possess the tenacity to battle for victory.

The coach offered an honest appraisal of the first match, which he said lacked finesse.

“It was clear that it was not a very aesthetically pleasing match of football, and I don’t expect the second one to be much further away from that,” he said, indicating that the encounters will likely be overshadowed by physical play and fierce duels.

While Cardoso expressed hope for a more visually pleasing contest this time around, he maintained a focus on the competition with evident seriousness.

“We have a clear intention to win the match because we don't consider that having scored away gives you that comfort,” he stated firmly, challenging his side to elevate their performance against a formidable opponent.

As the teams prepare to face off in a match poised to determine who advances to the MTN8 final, anticipation is palpable.

“Expectations of a tough match against a serious opponent,” Cardoso remarked, recognising the significance of the fixture for players, coaches, and fans alike.

“It will be an intriguing match to follow,” he concluded, setting the stage for what promises to be an emotionally charged encounter filled with passion and intensity.

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