"We also don't want to be penalised when things are not going well here and there," Cardoso said.
Miguel Cardoso has warned Mamelodi Sundowns supporters to expect a few minor speed bumps before his team starts firing on all cylinders in the new campaign.
With key players returning from injury and hitting top form, the Brazilians are starting to hit their stride, having scored eight goals in their last two matches across all competitions.
The Tshwane giants booked their place in the MTN8 final after edging Golden Arrows 3-2 in the second leg of their semi-final at King Zwelithini Stadium on Sunday.
With Sundowns playing every four days, Cardoso expects some fluctuations in performance as he manages his players and rotates his starting XI.
“There’s a big responsibility from our side, we want to do well. We also don’t want to be penalised when things are not going well here and there,” Cardoso said after reaching the MTN8 final.
The Portuguese coach believes the team deserves the backing of the supporters as they continue to build momentum.
“We still need support because I see a team that is not less committed from any of the teams I have coached at Sundowns. Since I’ve been here until now, I see a team that is more committed than it was,” he added.
“We’re growing in attitude and consistency. Of course, there will be ups and downs. Today we’re up but we’re ready for everything. Mostly, we’re ready to keep ourselves to the highest standard possible.”
Sundowns’ attention immediately turns to the Betway Premiership. They host newly-promoted Milford FC at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday night, with Cardoso expected to make further changes to his line-up.
“People need to understand that those rotations will bring about fluctuations in the performance,” Cardoso said ahead of the league match.
“It’s fantastic for a coach that prepares every match with the same players and keeps the core of the team. That gives stability and capacity for the team to progress.”
Sundowns face a demanding period, with four league matches scheduled in 10 days, starting with the home encounter against Milford.
Cardoso has therefore been asked when he expects his team to finally hit top gear, but the coach insists that finding the right balance will take time.
“Sometimes when you ask me when will your team be ready? My will to answer is which team? That is because it’s the same team but different line-ups,” Cardoso concluded.
“That stability comes with time, commitment of the players, their quality, time we’ve had together and the capacity the players have to give answers to the plans we try to put in practice.”
