Miguel Cardoso urges PSL to improve pitch standards ahead of Orlando Pirates clash

Ahead of Sundowns' first league meeting with Orlando Pirates this season, concerns have resurfaced about the quality of playing surfaces at Lucas Moripe Stadium and Loftus Versfeld, both used by the defending champions.

Cardoso admitted that Lucas Moripe's pitch has not been in good condition in recent matches and said he has been vocal about the issue.

"It's true that our pitch has not been in proper condition in the last three matches," he said.

"I was the first to talk about it before and after games."

The Portuguese tactician revealed that he had spoken directly with the PSL CEO regarding the lack of regulations on pitch preparation, including grass height and watering.

"I've already spoken about the need to water pitches and maintain them properly. These are the things we should focus on if we want South African football to develop," he said.

Cardoso added that his team has formed a group to monitor pitch conditions, noting that while improvements have been made, Lucas Moripe is not ideal for hosting a match of this magnitude.

Reflecting on last season's meeting with Pirates at Loftus Versfeld, he recalled how poor conditions affected both teams.

"That game was horrible to play on," Cardoso admitted.

"The pitch was muddy and slippery, and it stopped both teams from playing good football."

He concluded by stressing that quality surfaces are vital to improving the standard of play.

"The better the pitch, the better the football — that's how we grow the game," he said.