Coach Cardoso hails underrated Chilean Marcelo Allende as Mamelodi Sundowns' unsung hero

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has expressed his admiration for Chilean midfielder Marcelo Allende, describing his talent as “underrated” in South African football.

After a 3-1 victory over the competitive Durban City, Cardoso praised Allende’s contributions, highlighting his goal and overall performance.

In Sundowns’ 4-2-3-1 formation, Allende partners Teboho Mokoena, creating a dynamic duo just in front of the four-person defence. Early in the match, he surged forward from his defensive midfield role to make a bold move into the striking zone. His shot took a fortunate deflection off a defender and found its way into City’s net for Sundowns’ first goal.

Afterwards, Cardoso remarked on Allende’s potential and the need for greater recognition of his skills among local fans.

“I think it’s important that South Africa, in general, understands the level of player Marcelo is. I think he is a little bit underrated; he was never really recognised for the quality he has,” Cardoso said.

The coach underscored his desire for Allende to play with freedom, allowing him to explore the pitch creatively.

“As much as I’m concerned, I want him to feel pleasure and freedom to express himself. That freedom allows him indeed to look for other spaces, other things,” he added.

“I’m pretty happy with what he can show. He is a fantastic player, and we all have the privilege to see him play football.”

Allende’s goal was part of a dominant performance by Sundowns. Tashreeq Matthews and Iqraam Rayners also found the net, ensuring a comeback against City, whose solitary score came from Namibian international Joslin Kamatuka.

Cardoso also praised goalkeeper Ronwen Williams for his superb display, particularly his crucial penalty save in the first half.

“Very important, obviously, players appear at the right moments, and today he saved the goal, which significantly boosted the morale of the team. When one player falters, another rises, and we made a mistake about the penalty, and Ronwen was there,” Cardoso said, noting the importance of Williams’ role in the outcome.

“He deserves these emotional, positive moments; he is a hell of a goalkeeper and a man also.”

Matthews, who has faced significant pressure recently as he struggled to find the net, also had cause for celebration. Cardoso noted: “He has been suffering too much from the outside – the pressure on him is understandable. Today, he was happy and capable of finalising a goal to make it 2-1, and he will score many goals in the future, for sure.”

Sundowns are now just a point behind Premiership log-leaders Sekhukhune United FC, although they have played one more game.

With Sundowns continuing their pursuit of excellence, they return to Premiership action on Wednesday against Golden Arrows at Princess Magogo Stadium, where fans will undoubtedly be eager to see more of Allende’s extraordinary talents on display.