Cardoso Slams “Pitch Favoritism” in Pirates Championship Showdown

Coach Miguel Cardoso of Mamelodi Sundowns has claimed that Orlando Pirates are receiving favorable treatment this season, asserting that they’ve benefited from playing on better-quality pitches compared to his squad.

These comments arise as Sundowns appear to have slipped in their pursuit of the Betway Premiership title, with Pirates needing just a victory against Durban City at the packed Orlando Amstel Arena this Saturday to secure the championship.

Having completed all 30 of their league matches due to their involvement in the CAF Champions League final, Sundowns are now looking ahead, with the first leg taking place this weekend.

Their recent 3-2 defeat to TS Galaxy at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday has effectively eliminated their chances of claiming a ninth consecutive league title.

Cardoso argued that Pirates held an advantage by consistently playing at superior venues throughout the season, highlighting that the Soweto side did not face Magesi FC at Seshego Stadium or Orbit College FC at Olympia Park Stadium.

The forthcoming match for Pirates against Orbit, scheduled for 23 May, will not be held at Olympia Park Stadium, with FNB Stadium or Mbombela Stadium being considered as alternative venues.

“You saw Pirates’ match against Magesi — it was a joke,” Cardoso commented, alluding to the controversial penalty involving Kamogelo Sebelebele.

“The season has posed significant challenges regarding schedule and pitch quality. You’ve noticed Pirates playing on fields where we were not allowed to compete.

“When we played against Magesi, we were assigned to the smaller Seshego Stadium. In contrast, when Pirates went up against them, they had access to a larger, better-quality pitch.

“These are the hurdles we’ve faced. We certainly needed to be more resilient on Tuesday, should have claimed the win, and secured 71 points.

“It’s essential for South African football to implement VAR without delay and ensure it’s done appropriately.

“This needs to happen urgently as issues will only grow next season. VAR is complicated — referees must receive sufficient training and education, which is critical.”

With their domestic season now concluded, Sundowns will shift focus to the CAF Champions League final, where they are set to host Moroccan club AS FAR in the first leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday.

The Champions League presents Sundowns with an opportunity to conclude the season memorably by winning their second continental title and adding another star to their crest.