Miguel Cardoso explains Sundowns’ slow PSL start amid key absences

Miguel Cardoso has explained Mamelodi Sundowns’ slow start to the 2026 South African Premier Soccer League season, with key players still sidelined. Sundowns have collected four points from two matches and currently occupy seventh place.

The club began its league campaign with one win and one draw, scoring four goals and conceding three. That record leaves Sundowns unbeaten, but their position reflects a measured opening rather than the fast start expected from a side that won the CAF Champions League.

Sundowns’ first league victory came earlier this week when they recovered from a goal down to defeat TS Galaxy 3-2. The result ended a difficult opening stretch and showed their ability to respond after falling behind, but it did not lift them beyond seventh in the early standings.

Their wider recent run has also been mixed. Sundowns drew 1-1 with MC Alger, lost 2-0 away to Al-Hilal Saudi, drew 1-1 at Hertha Berlin, beat RB Leipzig 3-1 and shared another 1-1 draw away to FAR Rabat.

Cardoso’s explanation comes as Sundowns continue to manage the absence of important members of the squad. The sidelined players have limited the options available during the opening phase, while the team has had to balance league duties with a demanding run of matches.

Sundowns’ next fixture is at home to Marumo Gallants on 19 August. They will take four points and an unbeaten league record into that match, while their seventh-place standing underlines the need for greater consistency as the season develops.