Watch VideoMiguel Cardoso demands focus in Bamako as Mamelodi Sundowns eye CAF semi-final berth

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has called on his team to knuckle down in the CAF Champions League. Mamelodi Sundowns will arrive in Bamako full of confidence after beating hosts Stade Malien 3-0 in the CAF Champions League quarter-final first leg in Pretoria a week ago, putting them on course to reach the semi-finals for the third consecutive season. However, coach MiguelCardoso has urged his players to keep their feet on the groundand continue striving for strong results that will guide them safely into the semi-finals.

With the team riding high both continentally and domestically – retaining top spot in the Betway Premiership,two points ahead of second-placed Orlando Pirates after 21 matches– here’s why Cardoso is still likely to adopt an aggressive approach in Mali. After thrashing Stade Malien in the first leg, Sundowns already have one foot in the semi-finals. However, as Cardoso emphasised, complacency could prove costly.

If they progress, Sundowns will face either Esperance or Al Ahly – two familiar continental rivals. Esperance, previously coached by Cardoso, eliminated Sundowns in the semi-finals three seasons ago, while Sundowns beat Al Ahly at the same stage last season en route to the final. With the prospect of renewing either rivalry, it is crucial for Sundowns to assert themselves as favourites. A dominant performance in Bamako would further strengthen their credentials.