Miguel Cardoso admits this Kaizer Chiefs tactic caught Mamelodi Sundowns off guard
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso admitted his side had to adapt quickly after Kaizer Chiefs deployed a surprise five-man defence to secure a 1–1 draw at FNB Stadium.
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso revealed that his team faced an unexpected tactical challenge in Saturday's 1-1 draw against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium. Kaizer Chiefs adopted a 5-3-2 formation, employing an additional defender to restrict Sundowns' playing space and set up for counterattacks. Cardoso acknowledged that his team was prepared to analyze the situation on the field, as Kaizer Chiefs' coach typically prepares based on the opponent's tactics.
The Portuguese coach noted that Chiefs' strategy aimed to disrupt Sundowns' possession-based game plan while creating transition opportunities. Cardoso emphasized the importance of not losing the match, as both teams did not desire a defeat. Ultimately, Sundowns were penalized for a transition error when Langelihle Phili scored for Chiefs, who then capitalized on Mailula's equalizer.
Despite the contrasting approaches, Cardoso praised the level of intensity and skill displayed in the match. The result ended Sundowns' flawless start to the Betway Premiership season, while Kaizer Chiefs maintained their unbeaten record following two wins and a draw in their first three matches.
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