Mamelodi Sundowns have received a timely boost ahead of their CAF Champions League return leg against Wiliete SC, with coach Miguel Cardoso confirming that Teboho Mokoena's latest injury setback is not as serious as initially feared. The Bafana Bafana international was forced off in the first half of Sundowns' goalless draw in Angola on Sunday, sparking concerns that he could face an extended spell on the sidelines.

The relief stems from the nature of the injury. Cardoso explained that Mokoena aggravated the same ligament problem he initially picked up while on international duty, but the damage is minor. "The injury of Teboho is not a new one, it is the same," Cardoso said. "He had a stretch on the inside ligament. It is good that it is not a big thing so it will be overcome very quickly". The midfielder had been stretchered off during the first leg, raising fears of a more severe issue, but subsequent assessments have painted a far more encouraging picture.

While Mokoena's availability for Friday's decisive clash at Loftus Versfeld remains uncertain, the club's medical team is optimistic about a swift recovery. Cardoso indicated that the player would be evaluated further, but stopped short of ruling him out entirely. "We don't know the extent of the injury at the moment, but he could not continue in the match," the coach noted after the first leg. "So, let's hope it's not a big thing and we can recover him for the next match".

Sundowns are also buoyed by the expected return of goalkeeper Ronwen Williams, who missed the first leg with a minor knock. Cardoso expressed confidence that Williams would be recovered promptly, providing a double boost to a squad that has been stretched by injuries in recent weeks. The potential return of both senior players would significantly strengthen Sundowns' options as they seek to secure progression to the group stages.

Even if Mokoena is not risked from the start, Cardoso has emphasized the depth of quality at his disposal. "Teboho is a quality player, but we have a lot of quality players in that position to play and make a good game if he will not be available," he stated. With the tie finely poised after the goalless first leg, Sundowns will be desperate to have their midfield general available, but the positive prognosis means the setback is unlikely to derail their continental ambitions.

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