The Brazilians have won the last eight South African top-flight titles, are are currently in contention for the 2025/26 Betway Premiership at the top of the standings with 32 points, level with Orlando Pirates in second place, although from a game more.
They were, however, knocked out of the MTN8 in the semi-finals to Pirates, on penalties and saw their Carling Knockout Cup run ended by Marumo Gallants, also on penalties.
Cardoso’s team are still vying for the CAF Champions League to add to the one title they claimed back in 2016, while they kick off their Nedbank Cup campaign at home to Motsepe Foundation Championship side Gomora United on Wednesday.
They last won the Nedbank Cup back in 2022 and speaking ahead of the upcoming last 32 encounter, the head coach admitted his players are feeling the weight of expectation.
“I think there’s been an increased pressure on this team especially regarding the champions league and in cups too,” Cardoso said in the Citizen.
“In all press conferences of the champions league before and after, even when we go abroad, there’s always that question of when we are going to put the second star on your badge.
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“There’s an increased permanent pressure on my players regarding the champions league trophy and cups. As much as you think they are professionals, experienced and they should deal with it, but it’s not that simple because in the end, we’re all human beings.”
Looking to his lower league opponents, the head coach added: “This is a team that we had an opportunity to play recently in a friendly match and they are an opponent that we have to respect. While I’m here, my assistant coaches are working hard.
“Not only on the analysis because they are already done but the preparations of the match in order to understand the details of how to approach it so that we can pass on proper information to the players.”
“Expect a very strong line-up from Mamelodi Sundowns,” Cardoso concluded.