Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso expressed pride in his players’ execution and dedication, singling out Marcelo Allende as a high-quality talent capable of influencing matches at any moment.

Allende scored the decisive goal as Sundowns went on to beat AmaZulu 1-0 at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

The win saw Sundowns reclaim their place at the top of the Betway Premiership standings, level on 38 points with second placed Orlando Pirates.

Cardoso praised the impact of his squad depth and tactical adjustments after Marcelo Allende’s decisive performance, highlighting the midfielder’s attacking qualities and commitment to the team’s game plan.

“Sometimes, the players you have it’s what you have to play. Of course, in that condition I wanted to player that’s more offensive characteristics. Marcelo is a player that arrives on the edge of the box quite frequently, the goal he scored is typical Marcelo goal,” Cardoso told SuperSport TV after game.

“We also put again Lebo and Iqraam because we felt Brayan today was a little bit tired. The boys were so committed with the strategy and dynamics we brought in. I’m happy Marcelo scored because in the last matches he was not in the starting eleven,” Cardoso said.

“He started the cup match (against TS Galaxy). But we know what we expect from Marcelo, he is a high, high-quality player that can help the team any moment.

“I feel so proud of the boys, he is such a beautiful player, unbelievable.”