Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has insisted that their CAF Champions League tie against Remo Stars is far from over, despite a commanding 5–1 first-leg victory on Sunday at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Cardoso praised his players for their professionalism and execution but stressed that football demands respect for every opponent and every leg.
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“We respect the game. We respect football,” Cardoso said. “Yes, we have a good advantage, but we still have another 90 minutes to play. Anything can happen, and we’ll treat the second leg with full seriousness.”
The Portuguese tactician commended Remo Stars for their fighting spirit, noting that the Nigerian side created several chances despite the heavy scoreline.
“Remo are a good team — they play with intensity and passion. We had to work hard to contain them. We can’t relax now,” he added.
Sundowns’ attacking trio was in lethal form, capitalizing on defensive errors from Remo Stars to put one foot into the next round. However, Cardoso reminded his players that complacency could be costly, particularly away from home.
“The Champions League is about mentality. Big clubs must always finish the job properly,” he concluded.
The return leg will be played in Pretoria next weekend, with Remo Stars needing a miracle to overturn the four-goal deficit and keep their continental hopes alive.
