Masandawana Ready for Hostile Algeria as Cardoso Eyes Perfect Start
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso says Friday night’s CAF Champions League showdown against MC Alger will be defined by the smallest margins, as both sides look to gain early control of Group C.
Sundowns travel to the Ali la Pointe Stadium for a 9pm kick-off, buoyed by their 3–1 opening-day win against Saint Eloi Lupopo. MC Alger, meanwhile, enter the fixture under pressure after losing 2–1 to Al Hilal, and the encounter carries added intrigue with former Downs coach Rulani Mokwena now in charge of the Algerian giants.
Cardoso, who previously crossed paths with Mokwena when he was coach of Esperance, expects a high-intensity encounter shaped by tactical discipline, concentration and emotional control.
“This match will be played at maximum intensity,” Cardoso said. “It’s two big teams, and it will come down to details. The team that reads the key moments better will take the advantage.”
He emphasised the need for calmness in a stadium expected to be packed with one of Algeria’s most passionate fan bases. Sundowns, he believes, have developed into a side built for these testing North African environments.
“Our players love these atmospheres. They make great players even better,” he added. “We want to go into the international break in the strongest possible position, and we’ll fight for that result.”
A win would strengthen Sundowns’ push for a seventh consecutive knockout-stage qualification and maintain the momentum behind their pursuit of a second Champions League title.
How to Watch MC Alger vs Mamelodi Sundowns
Fixture: MC Alger vs Mamelodi Sundowns
Date: Friday, 28 November
Kick-off: 21:00 CAT
Venue: Ali la Pointe Stadium
Live TV: SABC 3
Streaming: sabc-plus.com and SABC Plus App
Live Updates: SABC Sport on X (Twitter) and Facebook
Sundowns have an impressive record against Algerian teams—six wins in seven—and will look to extend that streak despite the emotional storyline surrounding Mokwena’s first continental meeting with his former club.