Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has backed his decision to bench veteran midfielder Themba Zwane following his side’s 2-1 loss in the second leg of the CAF Champions League final against Pyramids FC.
Sundowns missed out on their second continental cup triumph, having won it in 2016; they were edged 3-2 on aggregate after they were held to a 1-1 draw in the first leg.
Zwane recently returned from a long-term injury, he was instrumental in the club’s equaliser against Al Ahly in the second leg semifinal match. He was an unused substitute in the first leg of the final, and Cardoso was asked about his decision. He said tactical balance took precedence.
“Themba, like every player, wants to be on the pitch. But our decisions were based on what we felt would maintain the right structure. We believed the team on the field could get the job done,” said Cardoso after the match.
The 35-year-old is known for his influence and calmness on the field, and many feel that his inclusion strikes fear into the opponents. He was also sidelined in the decider leg, and journalists questioned Cardoso about his decision.
The former Esperance coach dismissed the question, citing that it is not the time for pointing fingers at individuals and that all players qualify to play in the final.
“I totally understand what kind of answer you want or you are looking for, but it’s not the time to speak about individual performances of players. This group is very qualified, a lot of quality players, and obviously Themba is one of them,” he said after the match.
The Portuguese tactician also sent out a reminder that when he took over the reins, Downs were struggling and doubtful of qualifying for the knockout rounds.
“Our players were able to show good commitment, a good attitude, and good quality. Guiding them to the final, as I said, I’m very proud. The feeling when you play a final and you don’t win is obviously bitter, disappointing,” Cardoso told journalists after the game.
“But as I said in the press conference before this match, the sensations that invade me are that I have a wonderful group of men in my locker room, and obviously, in this moment, they are suffering.”
The Brazilians will now shift their focus to the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States of America, where they are in Group F with Borussia Dortmund, Fluminense, and Ulsan.
They will kickstart their campaign on 18 June against Ulsan.