Miguel Cardoso confirms suspended analyst was also Downs assistant

SABC Sport reported earlier this week that Masha had been placed on temporary suspension pending an internal investigation, amid allegations he shared confidential tactical details ahead of Sundowns’ CAF Champions League clash against Mokwena’s charges this weekend. 

Cardoso had already raised concern their preparations might be vulnerable to surveillance but stopped short of providing detail. He remained guarded on Friday, although providing more insight.

"As you know, this is a pending process occuring in the club, and when these situations are happening, obviously no one should speak about it and in order to preserve as much as possible.That's not a subject for here. it's obviously not the direction of our thoughts at the moment – our thoughts at this moment are concentrated on preparing for the game," said Cardoso

READ: Rulani Mokwena breaks silence on Mamelodi Sundowns spying accusations

He clarified Masha’s position at the club while adding that there were “misconceptions” around what actually happens behind closed doors.

"He was also my assistant coach. He was present at every training session, every meeting, every preparation, every team meeting and every pitch training session, so there is a lot of misinformation."

The Sundowns coach added that contrary to reports on various opinions on social media, he had brought Masha even closer. 

On the clash against MC Alger, where Sundowns need to win to book a spot in the quarterfinals of the Champions League, Cardoso admitted they left it until late.