Miguel Cardoso hits out at double standards facing Sundowns

Speaking ahead of their CAF Champions League return leg against Remo Stars – whom Downs thrashed 5-1 away from home – the Portuguese tactician suggested that even dominant performances are often downplayed, with critics claiming their opponents were weak rather than crediting the team’s quality.

Cardoso acknowledged that Sundowns’ start to the 2025/26 season has not been perfect, but questioned why expectations around the club always seem unattainable.

"For Sundowns, it seems like it is never enough. If we defeat a team by scoring five goals, it is because the opposition is weak, so it really is never enough.

"We are held to a higher standard, but that's a good thing."

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The coach reiterated his stance that, on the back of the FIFA Club World Cup and an unsettled camp, their slump was not unusual.

Cardoso also revisited the notion that Sundowns had “failed” against Pyramids in the final of the Champions League last season.

"There is a perception that a team that reaches the CAF Champions League final and loses has failed. I have another perspective. We succeeded in going all the way to the final, but we didn't achieve our ultimate desire."

The 53-year-old said he chooses to view things with a glass-half-full mindset.