Is Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Miguel Cardoso's Job On The Line In Cairo?

Mamelodi Sundowns take on Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the decisive Champions League semifinal second leg clash in Cairo on Friday night, a game that potentially has dire consequences for coach Miguel Cardoso.

Cardoso took over at Downs from Manqoba Mngqithi in December but is yet to endear himself to the demanding Brazilians supporters because of the unattractive football his side are playing.

In recent weeks, Sundowns have also lacked consistency, suffering defeats to big three rivals Orlando Pirates in the Betway Premiership and battling Kaizer Chiefs in a Nedbank Cup semifinal. This has led to suggestions the Brazilians may be vulnerable at a critical stage of the campaign.

In the 0-0 draw with Al Ahly in the first leg at Loftus on Saturday, the Brazilians dominated possession but lacked killer instinct, struggling to produce many shots on or off target.

Mngqithi got the chop because Downs, top of the log in the Premiership, were battling in the group stage of the Champions League the competition the Pretoria giants covet most and suffered an embarrassing Carling Knockout final defeat against promoted Magesi FC.