Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso insists his side need to raise their game ahead of their Carling Knockout Cup opener against Marumo Gallants.

The Brazilians will play host to Gallants when they meet at the Lucas Moripe Stadium for their opening round clash in the knockout compeititon.

Sundowns come into this encounter high in confidence after they claimed a 4-1 victory over Richards Bay in the last match.

Gallants, meanwhile, will look to bounce back and return to winning ways following their 1-0 defeat to Siwelele FC in their last match.

Cardoso believes his side have to up their game in order for them to rediscover their form.

“The competition is hard, and we need to respect the competition,” said Cardoso as per IOL.

“So, we need to be committed to the work that we do every day, and raise our level. We can’t stay where we are.

“But it’s also important for people not to look at Sundowns the same because we are not the same. There are new players, new dynamics and new things.

“We can assure the fans that we’ll fight hard. We need to have the attitude.”