Cardoso Delivers Encouraging Mokoena Injury Update as Sundowns Receive Major Boost

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has delivered encouraging news regarding Teboho Mokoena's injury, revealing that the midfielder is dealing with the same ligament problem he sustained while representing Bafana Bafana on international duty.

The update will come as a relief to the Sundowns faithful, who were concerned after the influential midfielder suffered an injury setback during the club's CAF Champions League encounter against Wiliete SC in Angola.

Mokoena was forced off during the first leg of the second preliminary round tie, which ended in a goalless draw. His early departure raised concerns about his availability for the crucial return fixture, with Sundowns needing a strong performance to secure their place in the group stages of Africa's premier club competition.

However, Cardoso's latest comments suggest that the situation may not be as serious as initially feared.

Speaking about the midfielder's condition, the Portuguese tactician explained that Mokoena had aggravated an existing problem involving the ligament on the inside of his leg.

"The injury for Teboho is not a new one, it's the same. It means that he had a situation in the national team.

"He had a stretch on the inside ligament. It's good it's not a big thing, it will be overcome very, very quickly," Cardoso explained.

The coach's assessment provides hope that the 29-year-old could return to action sooner rather than later, although his availability will depend on his recovery and the medical team's assessment.

Mokoena remains an important figure in the Sundowns midfield, bringing physical strength, defensive discipline and the ability to contribute offensively. His presence also provides valuable experience in matches where the Pretoria-based giants are expected to control possession and dictate the tempo.

His injury concerns have arrived at a difficult time for Sundowns, who are determined to continue their dominance in South African football while also defending their continental ambitions.

The Brazilians played to a 0-0 draw against Wiliete in the first leg, leaving the tie delicately balanced ahead of the return match at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

With qualification for the CAF Champions League group stages at stake, Cardoso will be eager to have as many key players available as possible.

Nevertheless, Sundowns boast considerable depth in their squad, giving the coach options should Mokoena require additional time to recover.

For now, the positive assessment surrounding the midfielder's ligament injury will encourage supporters, although caution remains necessary until his fitness is fully confirmed.

Sundowns will hope their influential midfielder recovers quickly and returns to the pitch without further complications as they pursue another successful campaign on both domestic and continental fronts.

Source https://x.com/iDiskiTimes/status/2113533683537793065