Miguel Cardoso vows vigilance as Betway Premiership title defense looms

The Brazilians get the show on the road with an away fixture at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Gqeberha against Chippa United.

Cardoso’s charges sent out a strong statement by thrashing Richards Bay 4-0 in the MTN8, sending a warning to their rivals.

But the Portuguese mentor is approaching the league opener with caution.

"Any club that is capable of competing at the highest level must be very respectful towards their opponents. The story of Sundowns obliges us to think about winning regularly.

"I told the players that it is very important to deliver a statement in the first match of the new league season."

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Cardoso stressed that Sundowns, despite being reigning champions, will not rest on their laurels.

Sundowns appointed Cardoso seven games into the previous campaign, and he’s now had an opportunity to be with the team from the start.

But the coach insists that having been with the group for eight months was sufficient.

"The pre-season for us in the USA was crucial because after losing the final of the CAF Champions League, the team needed to reorganise their minds and reconnect their hearts," explains Cardoso. 

Regarding Chippa this weekend, Cardoso wished his opposite number Sinethemba Badela the best in his tenure, but hopes Sundowns pick up points early on.

"Chippa United have been playing some friendly matches here in Joburg but we do not know what to expect.

"I hope that after the match on Saturday, the new Chippa United coach goes on to have a successful career."