Mamelodi Sundowns legend John Tlale has expressed his delight with the manner in which new head coach Miguel Cardoso has started his tenure at the club, having won both of his first two matches in charge.
Cardoso took over from Manqoba Mngqithi, who is believed to have lost the dressing room prior to biting the bullet.
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On Wednesday, The Brazilians secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over stubborn Stellenbosch FC, creating some breathing room ahead of second-placed Orlando Pirates.
"Cardoso is doing very well, judging by the way the team played against Stellenbosch FC," says Tlale, who kept goal for the side when they won three league titles in a row from 1998/99.
"They managed to create many chances considering they were up against a normally attacking team. Even though they missed a dozen opportunities, it showed they can attack and be patient when space is limited, especially against a team like Stellenbosch that played very defensively."
Tlale noted that the missed chances indicate the team is headed in the right direction.
"We must acknowledge that Manqoba Mngqithi was performing well, as he left the club in first position.
"However, since Cardoso took over, everyone is fighting for their place, and it's clear that they want to impress the new coach."
The 57-year-old also commended Sundowns for not requesting the PSL to postpone their match at DHL Stadium, which helped avoid a backlog of games in the second round.
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"It's beneficial for Sundowns because they will have many games to play with the Champions League and Club World Cup coming up.
"Manqoba often made significant changes, replacing about nine players, which ultimately hurt the team."
The Chloorkop-based side next face AmaZulu FC at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Christmas Eve.