Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has given the update on Lebo Mothiba’s injury ahead of Fluminense clash.
The Brazilians have endured a rollercoaster of emotions in their FIFA Club World Cup clash against Borussia Dortmund, suffering their first defeat in a captivating 4-3 encounter.
Despite the loss, the match was a testament to Sundowns' fighting spirit, highlighted by Lebo Mothiba's impactful performance before a late injury concern.
Sundowns initially seized the lead through Lucas Ribeiro, but Dortmund swiftly responded, netting four goals to establish a commanding 4-1 advantage. Yet, the Brazilians refused to fold.
Iqraam Rayners pulled one back, setting the stage for a dramatic turnaround. Coach Miguel Cardoso's tactical substitutions proved pivotal, injecting new life into the team.
One of these changes saw striker Lebo Mothiba score Sundowns' third goal, narrowing the deficit and igniting hopes of an unlikely comeback.
The tension reached fever pitch as Sundowns pressed for an equalizer. A promising aerial ball from Jaydan Adams was aimed at Mothiba, but the Bafana Bafana international unfortunately pulled a muscle in pursuit.
Post-match, Cardoso provided a quick update, clarifying that the injury is not related to the persistent knee problems that have troubled Mothiba in the past.
This suggests the injury may be less severe, offering optimism for his swift return to action after his notable contribution in this thrilling Club World Cup showdown.
WHAT CARDOSO SAID WHEN ASKED BOUT MOTHIBA’S INJURY
“Regarding Lebo, I don’t know for sure. He will have to make an examine and check if he has a muscle injury that’s what we need to check,” Cardoso told the media.
“There’s nothing on the knee.”
