Miguel Cardoso struggles to explain CAF Super Cup collapse

Speaking after the game, the Portuguese tactician insisted Sundowns were arguably the better side but conceded that their Algerian opponents were more clinical in front of goal.

Cardoso maintained that cup finals are often decided by fine margins, although he suggested their shock CAF Champions League elimination remains a far more painful setback than losing the Super Cup.

"A final is a game of details and we have to be honest about that because the result can go either way in game like this."

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Cardoso went as far as suggesting goals scored by USM Alger were “bonuses” given by Sundowns to the visitors. 

"We could still play the way we wanted to play although the wind was trying to make it difficult for us and when we overcame the first line of pressure we created opportunities in the box, but then the game turned around again in their favour. 

"Now we must focus on our Carling Knockout Cup semi-final."

In addition, the Sundowns mentor believes the inclement weather as well as losing Nuno Santos during the warm up and then having to substitute the injured Brayan Leon shortly after kick-off put them on the backfoot. 

Ultimately, Cardoso did somewhat acknowledge that Sundowns were not at their vintage best against a determined USM Alger, who are still on course to defend their CAF Confederation Cup title this season.