DANIEL Cardoso has fast established himself as the first-choice penalty taker for Kaizer Chiefs.
The defender has so far netted four spot kicks, in both the league and in cup competitions so far this season.
However, has admitted it is not an easy task as penalty-taking carries a lot of risk.
“You saw in the Soweto derby. In the 83rd minute, it was 2-2. Imagine I missed the penalty… my throat would be slit open,” said Cardoso in jest.
“But I’m privileged to take penalties for Chiefs. It is not that easy. It comes with a lot of pressure, and if you don’t take the risk you never reap the rewards.
“However, it’s been helping the team. I’ve been scored a couple and proud of it. I hope I can keep going.”
Cardoso, who is set to start against Maritzburg United in the Telkom Knockout semifinal on Sunday, is happy to carry with his duties.
“I’m sure there are other players who want to take penalties,” he said.
“But at the moment I’ve secured that position. I missed against Cape Town City in the quarterfinals and I went on and took the first penalty in the shootouts, and I think that showed a lot of bravery. And showed the players that I’m sticking to the position and I don’t want to let the spot taken.”
Cardoso will have a new partner at centre-back with Erick Mathoho ruled out of the clash with suspension.
“Maritzburg are a very good side and we shouldn’t go into the game to relax. We beat Sundowns and Pirates. We can’t take Maritzburg as small team.”
