Mamelodi Sundowns know exactly what kind of storm might arrive at Loftus this weekend, and coach Miguel Cardoso is making sure his players are ready for every possible gust. The Brazilians start their CAF Champions League group stage journey at home, but the visitors, Saint Éloi Lupopo, come with a spark that can quickly turn into a blaze.

A Congolese Side With A Reputation

For many South African fans, Lupopo became a talking point earlier this season after their heated preliminary-round battle with Orlando Pirates. That tie was so fierce it resulted in disciplinary action against defender Mukoko Amale and coach Guy Bukasa. Social media hasn’t forgotten it either, with supporters describing Lupopo as a team that plays with their hearts on fire, sometimes spilling over the line.

That emotional edge is exactly why Sundowns are approaching the fixture with both respect and caution.

Cardoso Pushes For Calm Amid The Chaos

Cardoso, who has worked tirelessly to shape Sundowns into a disciplined, detail-driven side, says the key to navigating a team like Lupopo lies in emotional control.

He reminded everyone of last year’s dramatic clash against Esperance, where tempers flared on both sides. Even he wasn’t immune.

“I make a big effort to help players understand that any emotion not proper for football must stay in the locker room,” he said. “Whatever happens on the pitch must be handled in the right way. I always want my players to keep their minds on their behaviour.”

For Cardoso, calmness isn’t passive. It’s tactical. If emotions overflow, decision-making suffers. And in the Champions League, one wrong decision can rewrite an entire season.

Loftus Advantage Comes With Responsibility

Playing their first group match at home is a boost, but Sundowns know they cannot rely solely on familiar surroundings. Cardoso highlighted the importance of staying switched on to the finer details: how to adjust at half-time, when to stick to the plan, and when to change it.

“Which images do we show? Which players can come in and give something more? If our minds don’t stay focused on this, we cannot make good decisions,” he explained.

Fans online have expressed a mixture of confidence and curiosity, with many wondering whether Sundowns’ structured, calm approach will overpower Lupopo’s high-energy unpredictability.

A New Continental Chapter Begins

For Sundowns, this match isn’t just about three points. It’s the start of another long campaign where they hope to lift the Champions League trophy again. Beginning that journey against a fiery opponent might be the perfect early test.

If Cardoso’s men can stay composed in the heat, Loftus may very well witness the type of performance that sets the tone for a deep run into Africa’s biggest club competition.

Source: SABC Sport
Image Source: Sundowns on X

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