{
  "id": 3764656,
  "title": "Miguel Cardoso questions Mamelodi Sundowns’ card count before Golden Arrows clash",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/27/miguel-cardoso-questions-mamelodi-sundowns-card-count-before-golden",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-27T15:59:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/sport/soccer/psl/2026-08-27-miguel-cardoso-questions-mamelodi-sundowns-card-count-before-golden-arrows-clash/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Mamelodi Sundowns' coach, Miguel Cardoso, has criticized the team being targeted for receiving numerous yellow cards ahead of their MTN8 semi-final clash against Lamontville Golden Arrows. Sundowns lost the first leg 1-0 in their previous match, which has put more pressure on them. They had previously won three games and drawn one before this defeat. Despite their strong offensive play, the team has been criticized for conceding goals, especially through set-pieces, leading to the loss in the Arrows match and a 5-2 win over AmaZulu. Cardoso expressed his disappointment with the treatment his players receive from referees, stating that they are not getting the protection others receive. He highlighted that Sundowns had 15 yellow cards in six games, while their rivals Orlando Pirates only had 28. This has affected the team's consistency, as suspensions accumulate during the season. Cardoso believes that as long as his team has the best players available, they will become stronger. He specifically mentioned Teboho Mokoena, who recently returned from the World Cup, as an important player who will contribute to the team's success. Cardoso also expressed his concern regarding the loss of key players such as Jayden Adams, Keanu Cupido, and Brayan León, and stressed the importance of support from everyone to help the team maintain consistency.",
  "summary": "Miguel Cardoso has questioned Mamelodi Sundowns’ disciplinary record, saying his players need greater protection from referees before Sunday’s MTN8 semi-final second leg against Golden Arrows.",
  "key_points": [
    "Coach Miguel Cardoso criticizes Mamelodi Sundowns facing many yellow cards.",
    "Sundowns had 15 yellow cards in six games, Orlando Pirates had 28.",
    "Teboho Mokoena's return from World Cup expected to boost team."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "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."
}