Kaizer Chiefs legend Itumeleng Khune stands with Cardoso amid heavy criticism after Caf Champions League loss - 'Miguel has brought identity to Mamelodi Sundowns'

Mamelodi Sundowns reached the Caf Champions League for the first time since 2016 when they won their maiden title.

However, they were undone by Pyramids, who won 3-2 in aggregate to win their first-ever title.

Masandawana had to be content with just the Premier Soccer League title, despite taking part in the MTN8, Carling Knockout, the Nedbank Cup, and, of course, the prestigious continental competition.

Cardoso has been accused of failing to get his tactics right in the Caf Champions League final.

A section of the fans and stakeholders feel he did not get his lineup right, and could have made substitutions that were effective.

However, Kaizer Chiefs legend Itumeleng Khune has lauded the 53-year-old for what he has achieved.

He feels Masandawana are headed the right direction.

“To be fair to the coach, he has brought identity to Sundowns and we can now see where Sundowns are heading," he told SABC3.

They are also going to play the Club World Cup, and they also stand a chance of doing well at the Club World Cup.

“But I think he has done tremendously well for the team," Khune continued.

“They must hold their heads high and be proud that they are runners-up.

“I still have the medal from being runners-up, and whenever I look at it, I get so proud of myself that I contributed to Kaizer Chiefs going into the final of the CAF Champions League.

“So, they must be proud of themselves, and they must know we are proud as South Africans," the Chiefs legend concluded.

Cardoso's tactics will be put to the test in the Club World Cup that will be played in the United States from June 14 to July 13.

Masandawana are in Group F alongside Fluminense, Borussia Dortmund and Ulsan HD.