Mamelodi Sundowns, one of the most dominant teams in South African football, are on the verge of their first trophyless season in 13 years. The team has failed to secure any domestic cup this season, with Orlando Pirates lifting the MTN8 and Carling Knockout Cup, and Durban City FC clinching the Nedbank Cup. The Brazilians are also at risk of losing the league crown for the first time in eight seasons, with Pirates requiring just three points from their final two matches to seal the championship.
Consequences of a Trophyless Season
A trophyless season would have severe consequences for coach Miguel Cardoso, who could find himself under intense scrutiny. The pressure has been mounting on several fronts, and the team’s failure to deliver would be a massive shift in the balance of power in South African football. According to the South African Premier Division rules, the team that wins the league title is awarded a significant amount of money, which would be a major blow to Sundowns’ finances if they fail to secure it.
Quality of the Squad
The team possesses one of the deepest and most expensive groups on the continent, with seasoned internationals across every department. This has raised expectations, and the team’s failure to deliver would be a disappointment. The squad’s quality is evident in their performance in the CAF Champions League, where they will face Moroccan side AS FAR in the first leg of the final on Sunday.
Here are some key statistics that highlight Sundowns’ dominance in South African football:
- 8 league titles in the last 13 years
- 5 domestic cup wins in the last 10 years
- A squad valued at over R500 million
Winning the CAF Champions League could transform the mood around the club and potentially rescue Cardoso’s first season in charge. However, failure on the continental stage would likely intensify the debate around the Portuguese mentor’s future.
