Sundowns coach Cardoso gives update on Themba Zwane’s injury

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso expressed hope that captain Themba Zwane's injury is not serious after the midfielder was stretchered off 10 minutes into their 1-1 MTN8 semifinal first-leg draw against Orlando Pirates. 

Zwane, a Bafana Bafana international, was replaced by Jayden Adams and was later seen limping back to the dugout to watch the rest of the match. Cardoso said the team is “crossing fingers” for a positive diagnosis, with the club awaiting a full assessment to determine the extent of the injury. 

Zwane's absence would be a significant blow to the reigning champions, who will now prepare for the second leg without one of their key players. 

The coach emphasized the importance of a quick recovery for his captain, highlighting Zwane's crucial role in the squad's success.

‘NO ONE WANTS TO LOSE A PLAYER THROUGH INJURY’

“We are still awaiting a complete medical assessment on Zwane's injury, but we hope that it is not too serious,” said Cardoso as quoted by SABC Sport.

“No one likes to lose a player to injury, especially if that player is Themba Zwane, someone with maturity and quality to play in the big matches.”

Reflecting on the match, Cardoso highlighted the away goal as a crucial “silver lining” in their 1-1 draw, a result he believes was fair given the competitive nature of the match. 

While acknowledging that the game could have gone either way, Cardoso praised the Buccaneers for their strong performance, particularly their defensive resilience. 

He stated that securing a draw at what he called Pirates' “fortress” was a positive outcome and dismissed any notion that the result felt like a defeat for his side. The away goal provides Sundowns with a significant advantage heading into the second leg, and Cardoso emphasized the importance of using that momentum to secure their spot in the final.

“It isn't a loss, and it doesn't feel like a loss, but we are disappointed to have conceded a goal. 

“If you ask any coach if they would accept a draw before a match starts in Orlando, most coaches will accept it,” noted Cardoso.