Miguel Cardoso believes Milford FC have already done enough to dispel any doubts about their ability to compete at the highest level of South African football.
The Mamelodi Sundowns coach was impressed by the newly promoted side despite his team’s 2-0 victory at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday, insisting Milford’s rise through the divisions should not have come as a surprise.
Cardoso pointed to their run to the Nedbank Cup semi-finals last season, where they eliminated established PSL opposition including Sekhukhune United and Orlando Pirates.
“Only people who are not paying attention to South African football would be surprised by the quality of this team,” Cardoso told SuperSport. “They not only achieved promotion to the PSL but also beat Sekhukhune and Orlando Pirates on their way to the semi-finals of the Nedbank Cup.”
READ: Mamelodi Sundowns See Off Milford FC to Remain Level on Points with Orlando Pirates
The Portuguese believes Milford deserve recognition for their approach, particularly their willingness to play expansive football rather than retreat against the champions.
“We should be happy because South Africa understood that it’s possible to play beautiful football,” he said.
Cardoso also acknowledged that Sundowns were not at their most fluent after making several changes to the side. The team needed time to develop the understanding he wanted, with the substitutions eventually helping to settle them.
The goals from Iqraam Rayners and Antonio Van Wyk ultimately justified the victory, but Cardoso was keen to emphasise the quality of the contest.
“Very good match from both sides,” he said. “Well done to the boys for their commitment and bravery.”
Sundowns remain unbeaten and face Golden Arrows on Sunday.