Mamelodi Sundowns are facing a critical injury wait on key players Teboho Mokoena and Aubrey Modiba just days before their MTN8 final showdown with Orlando Pirates. Both players, along with teammate Bathusi Aubaas, picked up knocks while on international duty with South Africa last week.
Mokoena and Modiba sustained their injuries during Bafana Bafana's 2-1 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying win over Guinea. Aubaas, who replaced Mokoena in that match, was himself forced off after just 12 minutes. The club's medical team is now working to get the trio match-fit for Saturday's final at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with their participation hanging on fitness tests.
Head coach Miguel Cardoso has ready-made options if his starters are unavailable. Should Modiba be ruled out, Fawaaz Basadien is the likely candidate to slot in at left-back. In midfield, Sphelele Mkhulise stands ready to fill the void left by Mokoena. The team's squad depth will be key, especially given their recent form which has seen them win five and draw three of their opening eight league matches to lead the standings.
Club legend Surprise Moriri acknowledged the importance of the pair but expressed confidence in the squad's depth. "You are talking about starters, whether they are at Bafana or Sundowns," Moriri said. He pointed to Samukele Kabini's performance after replacing Modiba against Guinea as evidence others can step up. "So I wish them a speedy recovery because we also need them for the MTN8 final," he added.
The injury concerns come as Sundowns sit top of the Premier Soccer League with 20 points from eight games, holding a one-point lead over their cup final rivals, Orlando Pirates. This commanding position, built on a league-low of only three goals conceded, adds to the high stakes of the upcoming final. The team's defensive stats highlight their solidity, a foundation they will hope remains intact regardless of the injuries list.
All focus is now on the medical assessments ahead of the October 10 final. The outcome will define Cardoso's selection for a match that offers the first major silverware of the domestic season, a trophy Sundowns are desperate to reclaim after last winning it in 2021.
The report in full is at Goal.com
