14th October 2026
The Portuguese tactician arrived in December 2024 and has since guided Sundowns to the Betway Premiership title, their second CAF Champions League crown, the African-Asian-Pacific Cup, as well as the elusive MTN8 trophy, which they lifted over the weekend.
Speaking after Sundowns’ 4-1 victory over Richards Bay on Tuesday night, a result that kept them top of the standings, Cardoso reflected on his journey and achievements with the club.
"When you collect trophies for the club together with your players and staff, it allows you to keep the ambition and ride the high. However, there is no team that can keep momentum on the top level and be prefect, but we are always trying."
The 54-year-old suggested it is possible he could have led Sundowns to even more trophies had it not been for the congested fixture schedule.
Cardoso also praised the team’s camaraderie, particularly during periods of inconsistent results when he came under increased scrutiny.
"The trophies we win are the moments we will remember, but what sustains the team is how we stick together during the lows and negative moments, and that is something that is remarkable about this group of players."
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