As Mamelodi Sundowns begin their defence of the Betway Premiership title with a visit to Chippa United at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday at 3pm, coach Miguel Cardoso has explained what drives the team to want to win its ninth title this season.
After winning the last eight editions of the title, the Brazilians head into the campaign as clear favourites, and Cardoso said the hunger and desire is still there as they look to continue with their dominance.
Sundowns want a perfect start against the Chilli Boys to show their intentions of winning the ninth title . People think because you win regularly or because you have good players, who have won a lot of trophies before, there is an easy job ahead,' said Cadoso.
'It is not exactly like that, I have been on both sides, and it's tough to fight without resources. But it's also very tough to fight to win every match. It's a mission I embrace with a sense of responsibility, one that I must perform every day. We're looking forward to winning again, we're excited about the new season, new energy, and only the strong character of players can take us to a victory for sure.
Cardoso is also excited about facing coach Sinethemba Badela, who was Rulani Mokwena's assistant at Sundowns, and thus knows the club very well. Everybody knows the Sundowns players. We respect the coach. We know that he participated in very beautiful years at the club. We have that respect, I was very pleased after I engaged with him, he said.