Cardoso Delivers Positive Mokoena Injury Update as Sundowns Prepare for Crucial CAF Champions League Clash

The good news for Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Teboho Mokoena continues to roll in as head coach Miguel Cardoso has voiced his belief in the player's speedy recovery from his injury.

On Wednesday morning, Mokoena did not participate in first-team training, which has led some to question his availability for Sundowns' return-leg match against Wiliete of Angola in the CAF Champions League's second preliminary round. The Brazilians will be looking to advance to the next round of the tournament when they face off against the other team on Friday nite at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

In an effort to set the record straight, Cardoso has said that Mokoena is suffering from the same ailment that he had when playing for Bafana Bafana during the last international break.

The midfielder reportedly tore the inner ligament in his leg during a collision with an opponent, according the Sundowns coach. The important midfielder needed further treatment after the incident, which was not deliberate.

"The injury for Teboho is not a new one, it's the same," Cardoso remarked, assuring that the issue was not new.

He went on to say that the injury was not significant and that he was optimistic Mokoena would be well soon.

Sundowns will have to evaluate the midfielder's fitness before deciding if he can play against Wiliete, but the news gives them hope. As the giants from Pretoria continue to juggle domestic duties with continental aspirations, his availability might be crucial.

If Mokoena is unable to play, Cardoso is confident in his team's ability to handle the scenario. New midfielder Lazola Maku joins a group that includes Thabo Cele, Marcelo Allende, Sphelele Mkhulise, Gomolemo Kekana, Katlego Ntsabeleng, and Marcelo Allende.

But after his own injury while on international service, Bathusi Aubaas is still out for the season.

Cardoso emphasised that the team's confidence should not be shaken by the absence of important players, stating that any player can contribute when given the chance.

Notable players who are now out with injuries include Khuliso Mudau, Keanu Cupido, Grant Kekana, Ronwen Williams, and Mokoena, among many others, which the coach also pointed out.

Regardless of these failures, Sundowns must have faith in their depth and let other players step up when needed, according to Cardoso.

Brazil will be looking to bolster their continental campaign with a win in Friday's match. Sundowns are keeping their fingers crossed that Mokoena makes a speedy recovery, but they are also making plans B in case he is ruled out for the encounter.

For now, however, Cardoso is certain that his current roster can put up the necessary effort to advance in the Champions League.

Source https://x.com/MDNnewss/status/2113620295428792584