Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso defended Lucas Suarez for his error that led to Kaizer Chiefs’ winning goal in their 2-1 Nedbank Cup semi-final defeat on Sunday.
The Brazilians opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time at Loftus Versfeld but Wandile Duba levelled on 57 minutes after being gifted the ball by Suarez.
Ashley du Preez then netted an 89th minute winner to hand Amakhosi a final with Soweto rivals Orlando Pirates.
Reflecting on the result, Cardoso explained that the criticism on Suarez is not fair.
He said on FARPost: “Look, I don’t see things like that.
“We came from a high-level match on Wednesday where Lucas made a wonderful performance. As you know, he was lined up on the CAF Champions League team of the week. So I think it’s not fair. Even against the Chiefs, he made one mistake, but he had a normal game.”
Cardoso added: “Tell me, a shot on the goal coming from play that was the structure from Chiefs. I don’t remember any, but maybe you do.
“I just ask you to be fair with the people, with the players, with myself, with the team, with the squad and the club. Analyse the things as they are. It’s your job to do it. Just pick the results. Look how it came from and don’t punish a player that doesn’t deserve.
“Obviously, he already has enough weight on his shoulder to carry that he doesn’t need to receive from you because the boy is doing his job and trying to make his best as everybody.”