Mamelodi Sundowns icon Themba Zwane has pinpointed four crucial areas of improvement since Portuguese tactician Miguel Cardoso assumed control of the reigning South African champions. The midfield maestro's insights come as Masandawana celebrate their record-extending eighth consecutive Premiership title while preparing for their first CAF Champions League final appearance since 2016.

Zwane's revelations highlight the tactical evolution under Cardoso, who took charge in December following Manqoba Mngqithi's departure. This transformation has propelled Sundowns to continental prominence, setting up a tantalizing two-legged final against Egypt's Pyramids FC. The Brazilians will host the first leg at Pretoria's Loftus Versfeld this Saturday before traveling to Cairo for the decisive return fixture on June 1 - a chance to reclaim continental glory eight years after Pitso Mosimane's historic triumph.

The Chloorkop outfit's dual pursuit of domestic dominance and African conquest continues to rewrite South African football history, with Zwane's experience proving invaluable in their quest for silverware. As continental football's spotlight turns to Pretoria this weekend, Sundowns' veteran leadership and their new coach's philosophy face their ultimate test.

What are the four things that Miguel Cardoso has been able to improve in the team!

Veteran midfielder Themba "Mshishi" Zwane has lifted the lid on the four tactical innovations that have transformed Mamelodi Sundowns under Miguel Cardoso's guidance. Speaking at Chloorkop's pre-match press conference, the 35-year-old skipper detailed how the Portuguese tactician has elevated their game since taking charge in December.

"The coach has fundamentally upgraded our approach," explained Zwane, a survivor of Sundowns' 2016 continental triumph. "Our ball circulation has become more intelligent - we patiently shift play, isolate opponents, and strike at precisely the right moments. What makes this special is how much joy we're playing with. You can see it in our smiles during matches."

Though currently rebuilding match fitness after injury, the Bafana Bafana stalwart remains crucial to Cardoso's plans for Saturday's first leg against Pyramids. The coach knows Zwane's big-game experience could prove decisive as he seeks redemption after last year's heartbreaking Champions League final defeat with Esperance.

This tactical evolution has not only secured domestic dominance but now positions Sundowns for potential continental glory, blending South African flair with European strategic sophistication.