Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso reveals why he didn’t want to face Orlando Pirates in the quarterfinals of the 2024-2025 CAF Champions League.
Sundowns were drawn against Esperance Sportive de Tunis in the quarters, a side that knocked them out in the competition last season in the semis under the watchful eye of the now Sundowns head coach.
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While the side Cardoso is pleased to have avoided, Pirates were pitted against Algerian side MC Alger.
The Portuguese revealed that he is glad to avoid the Buccaneers, as he would love to face them in the final of the tournament.
“I think it was clear that all the three teams that we could have picked were very strong,” the tactician told the club’s media.
“I didn’t want to play Pirates because I think that is much more beautiful for the competition that we don’t have, let’s say, a national game, but we make it.
“So, it didn’t happen. Basically, there were two teams, Esperance or Al Hilal, and both of them were different teams but strong.
“Al Hilal secured a qualification unbelievably. They just lost points in the last match.
Cardoso also wished Pirates and their head coach, Jose Riveiro, best wishes and wish to meet them in the final.
“It’s obvious that in this kind of international competitions you should expect that South African teams can do well,” he added.
“So, my expectation is that Orlando Pirates can do well. Why not face each other in the final? I know that it would be fantastic for South African football.
“I remember that I played myself a Europa League final [of both Portuguese teams] when I was in Braga against Porto.
“So, it was amazing to have that experience. It would be amazing to have a final with two South African teams.
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“So, let’s work hard so that we can arrive at that moment, and why not play final together?”