The absence of Mamelodi Sundowns' most experienced player, Themba Zwane, from both legs of the highly anticipated 2025 CAF Champions League final was a major talking point.
Now, Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has directly responded to a question why the midfielder was benched.
The Tshwane giants ultimately suffered a disappointing defeat, losing the 2025 CAF Champions League final with a 3-2 aggregate scoreline to Egyptian powerhouse Pyramids FC.
This outcome was sealed after they lost the crucial second leg 2-1, following a 1-1 draw in the first encounter.
The 35-year-old, Zwane recently recovered from a debilitating Achilles tendon rupture that occurred during his time with the Bafana Bafana national team.
Since his return to action, the influential player has found himself in a significantly reduced role within the squad, struggling to regain his consistent place.
Crucially, Zwane made his presence felt by playing a part in Sundowns' vital late goal during the semi-finals against Al Ahly.
This late strike was the very moment that sealed their qualification for their first CAF Champions League final since they last celebrated winning the prestigious title in 2016.
Cardoso was not willing to offer any explanation for his decision to not utilize Themba “Mshishi” Zwane in the second leg of the final, a game where his team ultimately suffered a 2-1 loss.
This result sealed their fate, leading to a 3-2 aggregate defeat in the fiercely contested African Champions League.
‘…THEMBA IS ONE OF THEM’
“I totally understand what kind of answer you want or you’re looking for, but now is not the time to speak about individual performances of players,” Cardoso said.
“This group is very qualified, a lot of quality players and obviously Themba is one of them.”
