Mamelodi Sundowns' Miguel Cardoso reveals reason for not starting club captain Zwane as they surrender first-leg advantage to Pyramids – 'I have to manage Themba like all other players'

Mamelodi Sundowns were left stunned after conceding a late equaliser in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final at Loftus Versfeld. Lucas Ribeiro opened the scoring in the second half, giving Masandawana a deserved lead.

They controlled large portions of the game but were punished for switching off in the dying moments. The late goal means the Brazilians will travel to Egypt with the tie level, giving Pyramids a slight advantage through the away goal.

Now, Sundowns must replicate their semi-final heroics and produce a strong performance in Cairo to lift the title. Coach Miguel Cardoso explained his decision to leave captain Themba Zwane out of the starting lineup. He said Zwane has just returned from a long injury layoff and needs to be managed carefully. Cardoso highlighted the importance of keeping the squad motivated and fully focused for the decisive second leg.

“I have to manage Themba like all other players, everybody wanted to be part of this match for sure, the decisions we did was in order to keep the balance of the team, we thought it was the best ones,” he said when asked about managing Zwane’s opportunities as reported by iDiski Times.

“It’s very beautiful football, or very ugly at the same time, because one, or ten seconds in the last minute of the game changed the way you all think about us and the decisions that we did.

“If we did not concede that goal, everyone would have said the coach was fantastic and he didn’t touch the team, he kept it balance, he made the best choices, we are judged according to the results we get, and it was one play, one dangerous action in the box.

“We conceded and it changed the opinions of everyone, it’s clear what it is, we just have to hang on to it, keep the boys motivated, push for the second leg and that’s it.”

Sundowns will be relying on their impressive away form, having only suffered one defeat on the road in this campaign. Their performances away from home have been consistent and disciplined, often grinding out results when needed.

The team has experience in navigating high-pressure games on the continent. Miguel Cardoso’s tactics and substitutions will be crucial in managing the second leg. A place in history and a second CAF Champions League star remain within reach for the club.

Masandawana face a challenging trip to Cairo for the second leg. They will hope to draw inspiration from their 2016 title-winning campaign, which was sealed away from home. A composed and clinical performance will be needed to silence the Egyptian crowd and bring the trophy back to South Africa.