Cardoso says Sundowns’ 1-0 MTN8 loss is only half-time in semi-final

Mamelodi Sundowns lost 1-0 to Golden Arrows in the MTN8 semi-final first leg, but coach Miguel Cardoso believes the tie remains open. Sundowns recorded 22 shots, including six on target, while Arrows had one effort on target and scored it.

The defeat was Sundowns’ first of the season. Junior Dion scored in the first half to give Arrows the advantage at Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium, where the home side struggled to break down a disciplined visiting defence.

Cardoso said the result represented only half of the semi-final and that Sundowns would have an opportunity to correct their shortcomings in the return match. He accepted that his team had not produced the result it wanted but saw no reason to regard the tie as settled.

The Sundowns coach felt the match changed when their goalkeeper had to be replaced. The stoppage lasted seven minutes, and Cardoso believed it affected the team’s concentration and momentum. Sundowns then lost possession and failed to maintain their defensive balance before Arrows capitalised for the goal.

Arrows focused on limiting the available space after taking the lead, making it difficult for Sundowns to create clear opportunities. Cardoso considered the outcome unfortunate given the difference in the teams’ attacking numbers, but acknowledged that his side made the mistake that decided the contest.

Sundowns will first turn their attention to a midweek meeting with AmaZulu. They will then travel to King Zwelithini Stadium next weekend for the second leg, needing to overturn the one-goal deficit to reach the MTN8 final.