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Miguel Cardoso, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

Mamelodi Sundowns XI to face Raja Casablanca in the Caf Champions League group stages - Can Cardoso kickstart his Chloorkop journey on a high note?

Mamelodi Sundowns are beginning a new chapter under Miguel Cardoso, who was recently appointed as the head coach following the sacking of Manqoba Mngqithi.

The 52-year-old tactician faces an immense challenge, stepping into a role that comes with high expectations.

His first major test is a crucial group stage encounter against Raja Casablanca on matchday three.

Sundowns desperately need a victory, having drawn their first two matches in the competition.

Anything less than three points will leave Bafana Ba Style in a precarious position, jeopardizing their chances of advancing beyond the group stages.

The stakes are high, and Cardoso has no room for errors as fans and management demand results.

The former Esperance de Tunis coach must quickly adapt and inspire his squad to deliver on the big stage.

In this piece, GOAL explores Sundowns’ likely starting XI and predicts how the new coach could set up his team against the formidable Casablanca outfit.

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  • Ronwen Williams Mamelodi Sundowns 2023Getty

    GOALKEEPER: Ronwen Williams

    Bafana Ba Style's number is the first name on the team sheet and the Caf Men's Player of the Year nominee will show that its no fluke that he is Africa's best.

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  • Khuliso Mudau and Okocha Rashid, Bafana vs South SudanBackpage

    RIGHT-BACK: Khuliso Mudau

    The wingback has been doing well for the Brazilians and will be out to give his side some of his pace on the right hand side also his defensive abilities will be needed.

  • Aubrey Modiba, Mamelodi Sundowns, September 2024Backpagepix

    LEFT-BACK: Aubrey Modiba

    Very versatile player who tends to be very effective when the team is offensive and can also tug into the midfield.

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  • Grant Kekana, Mamelodi SundownsBackpage

    CENTRE-BACK:Grant Kekana

    After being on the sideline, the Bafana Bafana international's expirience is needed at the back.

  • Mosa Lebusa of Mamelodi SundownsBackpagepix

    CENTRE-BACK: Mosa Lebusa

    The left footer will be bringing balance to the defence and a his aerial prowess will be vital.

  • Teboho Mokoena, Mamelodi Sundowns

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Teboho Mokoena:

    He has been inconsitent in his game and with a new coach he must impress and show why he is regarded as one of the best in his posiion.

  • Sphelele Mkhulise, Mamelodi Sundowns vs Royal AM, October 2024Backpagepix

    CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Sphelele Mkhulise

    The Blesser has not had much game time, with Cardoso in the academy graduate will surely be available to play.

  • Marcelo Allende, Mamelodi Sundowns, November 2024Mamelodi Sundowns

    ATTACKING MIDFIELDER: Marcelo Allende

    His energy and calmness on the ball will be vital in controlling the tempo of the game.

  • Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Mamelodi Sundowns, November 2024BackPagePix

    RIGHT ATTACKER: Lucas Ribeiro

    The Brazilian has had a great start to the season and is one of the most vital members of the team.

  • Peter Shalulile, Mamelodi Sundowns & Keanu Cupido, Cape Town City, October 2024BackPagePix

    LEFT ATTACKER: Peter Shalulile

    He has been struggling to find the back of the net regularly and this gives him an opportunity to do that.

  • Iqraam Rayners Mamelodi SundownsBackpagepix

    CENTRE-FORWARD: Iqraam Rayners

    A man on form, in the last continental outing he scored the crucial goal.

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