{
  "id": 14655235,
  "title": "Cardoso explains why Sundowns squad rotation is key",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/15/cardoso-explains-why-sundowns-squad-rotation-is-key",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-15T08:57:16.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "The Citizen",
    "slug": "the-citizen",
    "url": "https://www.citizen.co.za/sport/soccer/cardoso-explains-why-sundowns-squad-rotation-is-key/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has asked fans to trust his team's decisions as they prepare for a hectic schedule in the 2026/27 season. The club has already won the MTN8 trophy and now faces a packed calendar, including the Betway Premiership, CAF Champions League, Carling Knockout, and FIFA Intercontinental Cup. Cardoso emphasized the significance of squad rotation to maintain player fitness and motivation, stating that they will only field those who are in the best condition to play. He acknowledged that competition for places exists, noting that players like Fawaaz Basadien and Divine Lunga were chosen based on their recent performances. The coach warned of a tough opening round in the CAF Champions League, where Sundowns will face Wiliete in the second preliminary round. He expressed respect for the challenge, acknowledging that Wiliete is currently leading the Girabola standings. Cardoso stressed the importance of focusing on the match, as the draw was not easy, and Wiliete has already established a strong position in the Angolan championship.",
  "summary": "\"Managing the group means putting in those who are showing us they're in better conditions to play,\" Cardoso said.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 3,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "IOL",
        "title": "Cardoso reveals how Sundowns managed MTN8 celebrations before rapid turnaround",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/14/cardoso-reveals-how-sundowns-managed-mtn8-celebrations-before-rapid",
        "published": "2026-10-14T13:30:00.000Z"
      },
      {
        "outlet": "The Citizen",
        "title": "Sundowns’ Cardoso pleased with chartered flight to Angola",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/14/sundowns-cardoso-pleased-with-chartered-flight-to-angola",
        "published": "2026-10-14T14:08:14.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}