Cardoso frustrated by Chippa venue change

September 10, 2026 15

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Miguel Cardoso, has voiced his frustration over the venue change for their Betway Premiership clash with Chippa United on Saturday.

Sundowns were initially scheduled to face Chippa at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha, but the Chilli Boyz have moved the game to the Buffalo City Stadium in KuGompo City, citing problems with the playing surface.

The decision has effectively left Sundowns with a day less to prepare for their FIFA Intercontinental Cup clash with Saudi Arabian giants, Al-Ahli, at Loftus Versveld Stadium on 19 September.

“It’s very tricky for me because I’m highly criticised when I speak about things that I think will take the game to another level in South Africa,” Cardoso told the media after Sundowns’ 3-0 Premiership win over Siwelele on Wednesday night.

“But I just want you to understand that we have a trip planned to fly, to play (in Gqeberha). The change of venue clearly disrupts our preparations for the Intercontinental Cup.”

“You know why? Because we cannot travel on the same day back and we cannot travel in the morning on the following day.”

“So after the match we’re going to stay there, watching the faces of each other and enjoying a hot dog, maybe we can walk on the beach,” he said sarcastically.