Zwane's fitness worries arise, but Sundowns line up Mokoena and Mudau for the Gallants clash

Mamelodi Sundowns celebrated a convincing 3-0 victory against Magesi FC at the Lucas Moripe Stadium on Sunday, but the joy was tempered by concerns over a new injury to veteran midfielder Themba Zwane.

After a four-match absence due to a thigh problem sustained during the MTN8 semi-final against Orlando Pirates last month, the return of captain Zwane was met with enthusiasm. However, his afternoon was cut short when he was substituted shortly after being introduced in the second half, leaving the club anxious about the extent of his latest setback.

Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso expressed cautious optimism about Zwane’s recovery, although he admitted it could be a fresh injury.

“We had total clearance for Themba to play, but obviously we knew that Themba, Thapelo Morena and also Siyabonga Mabena were players who should not play more than 30 minutes,” Cardoso explained.

“Unfortunately, Themba had a small problem. Let’s see if it’s a minor issue, but I hope so. It’s not the same injury that he had before.”

In contrast, Cardoso provided encouraging updates regarding Teboho Mokoena and Khuliso Mudau.

Mokoena was not included in the match-day squad due to fatigue from international duty. Cardoso highlighted the need to manage player workloads carefully, with fixtures coming thick and fast in the weeks ahead.

“Teboho played two 90-minute games with the national team. As a coach, I need to manage the players to have them ready,” said Cardoso. “There are no issues with Teboho, and we’ll see him on the pitch in the next matches.”

Meanwhile, full-back Mudau has resolved his issues with the club and been reintegrated into training, eyeing a swift return to the match-day squad. “Khuliso is training fantastically. We are sure that soon he’s going to be able to help,” Cardoso said.

As Sundowns bask in the glow of their latest victory, attention turns to Cardoso’s handling of player fitness and squad management ahead of Wednesday night’s clash against Marumo Gallants in Bloemfontein.

The hope is for Zwane’s swift recovery, with a strong squad essential to maintaining Sundowns’ impressive unbeaten run.