Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso acknowledges fans' high expectations.
Despite leading the league table, Sundowns have faced criticism for not meeting expectations, particularly following a disappointing run in the Carling Knockout and earlier elimination from the MTN8 Cup.
The Brazilians also registered a slow start to the league season, which is atypical for them. Nevertheless, Cardoso remains optimistic about the team's progress, highlighting the challenges encountered after the FIFA Club World Cup.
“This is very interesting; people always ask when the best is from us, and it seems it is never enough,” Cardoso stated.
“I find it fascinating to consider that there is no shielding for such standards elsewhere. What we achieve is never sufficient; there appears to be a very high expectation set for us.”
Cardoso perceives these high expectations as a reflection of the team's success and the public's faith in their capabilities.
“On one hand, this is positive; it indicates belief in our efforts as a team,” he explained.
“We have recently raised our standards very high, which has led to increased expectations, but life consistently operates at a high level.”
The former Esperance mentor underscored that teams undergo phases of rebuilding, especially after the difficulties faced post-Club World Cup.
“Teams go through processes of reconstruction and recalibration, and we experienced a particularly challenging period following the Club World Cup,” he noted.
“Examining international teams involved in the Club World Cup reveals that they too are experiencing struggles at this phase of the season.”
Cardoso anticipates that the Brazilians will demonstrate growth over the medium term, rather than in the short term.
“I foresee the team developing over the medium term, rather than just two or three days,” he elaborated.
“We have recently integrated new players, and some will miss upcoming matches due to suspensions.”
Despite the challenges faced, Sundowns made a statement in the CAF Champions League by defeating Nigerian giants Remo Stars 5-1 in the first leg of the second preliminary round last weekend.
The Brazilians are also in contention for the CAF Club of the Year Men award, alongside Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch from South Africa.
On the nomination, Cardoso remarked, “As a coach, I am delighted with our positioning, which indicates that we have managed to maintain our standards throughout the season on the continental level.”
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