Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has welcomed the return of Thapelo Morena and Arthur Sales following injury, describing their comeback as a timely boost as the team navigates a demanding run of fixtures.
The two players featured in Tuesday’s narrow 1-0 victory over Durban City, a result that secured important points away from home. Their return comes as Sundowns prepare for a congested schedule, including a high-stakes CAF Champions League semi-final.
Morena had been absent for four matches, while Sales missed the previous game as both players recovered from injury. Their reintroduction to the squad was seen as a positive development for the Pretoria-based side, which has faced mounting pressure due to the intensity of recent fixtures.
Speaking after the match, Cardoso highlighted the impact injuries have had on his squad and stressed the importance of having key players available again.
“Look, there’s impact when you play so many matches. And if you look at the squad and the bench and the players, you understand that there are very important players that were not here,” said Cardoso.
“And important players that just came back. Arthur played the first time today. Morena played the first time today.”
The Portuguese coach suggested that the physical toll of frequent matches has affected team performance, with absences forcing others to step up. While he acknowledged the efforts of those who filled in, he admitted the squad has felt the strain.
“So it means that the aggression that we’ve been suffering has been having impact on the team. Of course, the fact that other boys raced for the level is very important,” he added.
Despite the positive result, Cardoso indicated that decision-making during the game was not always straightforward, particularly when considering substitutions and tactical adjustments.
“But today, you look at the bench, and in some moments I wanted to put something and I was a little bit in doubt how to take that, in which direction to take the game,” he said.
The coach, however, expressed confidence in the players available to him, emphasising the importance of resilience as the team continues its campaign on multiple fronts.
“But I count on the ones that exist always permanently to have the right attitude. And let’s be resilient so that we can move forward in the right way.”
Sundowns now turn their attention to continental competition, with a crucial Champions League semi-final first leg against Esperance de Tunis scheduled for Sunday, 12 April. The return of Morena and Sales is expected to provide added depth and options as the team aims to maintain momentum in both domestic and international competitions.
