Sundowns Showed Who's Boss Against The Soweto Giants

Mamelodi Sundowns flexed their muscles over rivals Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs at home in a space of a month in the Betway Premiership.

And while that didnt establish their status as the incoming champions for a record eight time for now, they proved to be boss. Independent Media's Mihlali Baleka covered both matches, and thats why below he looks at three ways the Brazilians showed their dominance.

Coach Miguel Cardoso had been cracking the whip on all and sundry since arriving at the club and thats why many hoped that Chiefs and Pirates would stop him in his tracks.

But the Portuguese mentor had other ideas. He wanted to stamp his authority by beating the best to be ranked among the best, and so far, hes simply been the best. His team outmuscled Pirates 4-1 early in February to the disappointment of his European counterpart Jose Riveiro.

He was back at it Saturday. Sundowns were not at their best due to fatigue and injuries, but they still had enough gas in their tank to beat Chiefs 1-0. Cardoso had stressed prior to the game that Chief will not sit-back, while he has respect for counterpart Nasreddine Nabi who remains a top coach despite the struggles.