Mamelodi Sundowns Face Grueling Schedule After International Break

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso faces a challenging period as his squad prepares for a congested fixture list following the international break. The club will be without 14 key players due to national team commitments, leaving Cardoso to manage a depleted squad.

Bafana Bafana call-ups include Ronwen Williams, Zuko Mdunyelwa, Aubrey Modiba, Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, and Iqraam Rayners. Namibia’s Peter Shalulile, Zimbabwe’s Divine Lunga, and Uganda’s Denis Onyango are also away on duty.

The Amajita Under-20 squad preparing for the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile from September 27 to October 19 has taken five Sundowns players: Asekho Tiwani, Thato Sibiya, Gomolemo Kekana, Kutlwano Letlhaku, and Siyabonga Mabena.

Cardoso will be hoping all players return without injury as the club approaches a demanding run of five matches in 14 days immediately after the FIFA break.

Sundowns open this period at home against Magesi FC on September 14 at Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium. They then travel to Bloemfontein to face Marumo Gallants on September 17 at Dr Petrus Molemela Stadium.

After a day for recovery and travel, Sundowns host Durban City on September 20, followed by a trip to Durban to play Golden Arrows on September 24 at King Goodwill Zwelithini Stadium. They conclude the fortnight with a home match against Richards Bay FC on September 27.

The team will have a full week before the Carling Knockout round of 16 on October 4. The October FIFA break follows, providing a short window for rest and preparation.

Cardoso’s squad will face minimal training opportunities and the absence of five players with the Under-20 national team. The next 15 league points and progression in the Carling Knockout will require careful squad rotation and tactical management to navigate this challenging schedule.