Mamelodi Sundowns’ Cardoso Provides Injury Update Ahead of Nedbank Cup Clash

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has provided an encouraging injury update ahead of their Nedbank Cup Round of 16 encounter against Mpheni Home Defenders. The Brazilians have been dealing with a series of injuries in recent weeks, but the squad is set to receive a boost with several key players nearing full recovery.

Sundowns Eyeing Redemption in the Nedbank Cup

The defending league champions are looking to bounce back from a rare Premier Soccer League defeat to TS Galaxy, which was only their second loss of the season. Their previous Nedbank Cup outing against Sibanye Gold Stars proved to be a tricky encounter, as the amateur side managed to score twice against them.

With the unpredictable nature of cup competitions, Sundowns will be wary of Mpheni Home Defenders, a team that has already knocked out a Motsepe Foundation Championship side in the previous round.

Cardoso Provides Injury Boost

Speaking to the media, Cardoso revealed that several players are in the final stages of their recovery and could be available soon.

“I can tell you that if we start from the back, we have Mothobi Mvala, Rivaldo Coetzee, Divine Lunga, and Khuliso Mudau working their way back,” Cardoso stated, as reported by iDiski Times.

“Zuko Mdunyelwa is also close to returning, along with Arthur Sales and Keanu Cupido, who arrived injured but is finishing his recovery. Siyabonga Mabena and Themba Zwane are also improving. Most of them are close to being available, and I believe they will help us in the coming games.”

The coach emphasized the intensity of South African football, highlighting how every match is a challenge regardless of the opponent.

“There are no easy matches in the PSL. Even when we face teams near the bottom of the table, they give everything. Playing against Sundowns gives extra motivation to our opponents, so we must be prepared for that.”

Strong Squad Despite Injury Concerns

Despite their injury troubles, Sundowns remain one of the strongest teams in South Africa, with squad depth allowing them to rotate players effectively. Their upcoming match against Mpheni Home Defenders provides an opportunity for fringe players to get valuable game time.

Having already suffered elimination from one cup competition this season, Sundowns will be eager to ensure they remain in contention for the Nedbank Cup. Cardoso’s main challenge will be managing his squad carefully as they continue to fight on multiple fronts.

What’s Next for Sundowns?

The Brazilians will take on Mpheni Home Defenders on February 16, 2025, at 15:00. The Limpopo-based side currently sits fifth in Stream A of the ABC Motsepe League and will be hoping to cause a major upset.

With several key players returning from injury, Sundowns will be looking to put in a dominant performance and book their place in the quarterfinals.