Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso called for broader support for player Tashrik Matthews, asserting that the forward's mistakes should not overshadow his positive qualities, which have made him an important member of the 'Brazilians' squad.
Matthews took the field in the MTN8 match on Sunday after playing a key role in Sundowns' victory over AmaZulu in the Betway Premiership on Wednesday at Loftus Stadium, where he was named man of the match.
Nevertheless, the forward's relationship with Sundowns fans has not always been straightforward. He has experienced periods of fan disappointment, especially when missing scoring opportunities, despite demonstrating crucial moments since joining the club.
Cardoso believes that some of the criticism directed at Matthews has been excessive, and he wishes for attention to shift to how the 25-year-old player reacts when things do not go as expected.
Coach's View on Criticism
Cardoso stated: 'I also think that Tashrik is criticized too much, too much, because sometimes he wants to perform well. I know there was a goal in the World Cup that he could have scored, there was a goal in the final against Pyramids that he could have scored.'
The Sundowns coach referenced moments that continue to haunt Matthews, including missed chances at the FIFA 2026 World Cup with 'Bafana Bafana' and in the CAF Champions League final between Sundowns and 'Pyramids'. However, instead of dwelling on these misses, Cardoso believes Matthews' reaction to them speaks more about him.
He added: 'Yes, they were there, but the question is not whether he didn't score, but what he scores after setbacks, because today I accepted him and told him exactly that.' He emphasized: 'It doesn't matter what happens after a loss; what matters is how you react, that speaks about you, not the mistake you made.'
This message may be particularly relevant as Sundowns prepares for another demanding match schedule, and the MTN8 match on Sunday will provide Matthews with another opportunity to win over the fans.
Support Instead of Constant Criticism
Cardoso acknowledges that Matthews must improve and learn from his mistakes, but he believes this process requires support rather than continuous criticism. 'Mistakes must be avoided and, obviously, lessons must be learned from them, but how you show your character by continuing to play the way you need to in the match—that is how we should support our players.'
Thus, Matthews' task is not only to score goals. He also needs to maintain the confidence and personal qualities necessary to retain influence in the Sundowns team, which is competing for trophies on multiple fronts. After his last performance against AmaZulu, Cardoso is clearly determined for the forward to be judged by the full picture, not just by the chances he failed to convert.