‘Sometimes we are lucky’ — Miguel Cardoso reacts to inspired Mothiba sub

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso admitted a stroke of fortune played its part as his side edged Polokwane City FC 1-0 at Seshego Stadium to return to the summit of the Betway Premiership.

In a tense Wednesday night encounter, it took a moment of tactical inspiration—and perhaps a bit of luck—to break the deadlock. Striker Lebo Mothiba, introduced in the 63rd minute for Peter Shalulile, made an immediate impact, providing the assist for Marcelo Allende with his very first touch of the game.

The solitary goal was enough to move the Brazilians to 61 points, leapfrogging Orlando Pirates to reclaim first place in the standings.

CARDOSO HAILS ‘LUCKY’ SUBSTITUTION AS SUNDOWNS DOWN POLOKWANE CITY

Reflecting on the clinical timing of his substitution, Cardoso remained humble about the tactical masterstroke.

“Sometimes we are lucky but, of course, we have a purpose,” Cardoso said. “Sometimes things take longer and when they work out you may look like the best coach in the world. The reality is that you are going to need everybody at the end of the championship.”

For over an hour, Polokwane City had frustrated the visitors, maintaining a disciplined defensive shape that kept Sundowns at bay. However, Allende’s sixth goal of the campaign shifted the momentum entirely, leaving the hosts struggling to find a response.

Sundowns had a golden opportunity to double their lead in the 73rd minute after being awarded a controversial penalty. Mothiba, looking to add a goal to his earlier assist, stepped up but saw his ambitious “Panenka” attempt easily gathered by goalkeeper Lindokuhle Mathebula.

Despite the missed chance to rotate the scoreline, Cardoso was full of praise for his team’s application on a difficult pitch.

“We played a wonderful game under the conditions we were provided; very interesting in terms of focus and player determination,” he noted. “I am so happy for the boys. We did the job, and we have another game against Polokwane at the weekend, and surely it will be another tough one.”

Sundowns won’t have long to celebrate as they prepare for the return leg against the same opposition this Sunday.

While the rest of the league pauses for the Nedbank Cup final, the focus remains firmly on the title race. Second-placed Orlando Pirates will be looking to respond to Sundowns’ move when they travel to face Stellenbosch FC at Athlone Stadium on Tuesday.