Sundowns Coach Mardoso Reflects on Win Over Raja Casablanca, Emphasizes Need for Growth

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Mardoso acknowledged the team’s need for further development after their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Raja Casablanca in Pretoria on Sunday, securing their first win in the CAF Champions League group stages.

Speaking after the match, Mardoso emphasized that while the win was important, there is still much work to be done. “We were more comfortable, but there is still a lot to go,” he stated. “This will be a very open group; a very tough one. We know our responsibility but we know how tough it will be, so today was important emotionally.”

The Portuguese coach highlighted the need for improvement and growth within the team. “Hard work can pay off, but we need to grow. Not everything was perfect, maybe at times we could have done better. We need more time, but more time is about winning.

Iqraam Rayners scored the only goal of the match in the 65th minute, giving Sundowns a vital three points. The win moved Sundowns level with AS FAR at the top of Group B, both teams now on five points from three games.

The victory marked a strong start for Mardoso, who replaced Manqoba Mngqithi earlier in the week. Mngqithi had overseen two draws in the group stage, which led to his departure.