Sundowns urged to take control against Arrows in MTN8 2026 opener

Mamelodi Sundowns host Golden Arrows in the first leg of the MTN8 on Sunday, 23 August 2026, at Lucas Moripe Stadium. The return fixture is scheduled for one week later at King Zwelithini Stadium in Durban.

Sundowns coach Cardoso has called for his team to control the tie from the opening match. Playing at home gives the Brazilians an opportunity to build an advantage, but their coach expects a difficult contest against an Arrows side he believes has quality and pace.

The warning comes after an uneven run for Sundowns. They drew 1-1 with MC Alger, lost 2-0 to Al-Hilal Saudi, drew 1-1 against Hertha Berlin, defeated RB Leipzig 3-1 and then drew 1-1 with FAR Rabat in their five matches before the MTN8 meeting.

Golden Arrows have also produced a cautious sequence of results. They lost 1-0 to Milford FC, drew 0-0 with TS Galaxy, beat Chippa United 2-0, drew 0-0 with Polokwane City and finished 1-1 against Amazulu. Their recent record includes four draws, while Sundowns have also been held three times in their last five games.

Sundowns’ defensive work will be central to the first leg. The team have recorded only one clean sheet in their first four matches of the season, and Cardoso wants his players to protect the space behind the defence whenever possession is lost. He expects Arrows to threaten quickly in transition and has stressed the need to avoid errors that can be punished.

The coach also plans to select the team on merit despite the increasingly crowded schedule. Sundowns are seeking the MTN8 trophy, and a strong home performance would give them a platform before the series moves to Durban.