Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has provided a reassuring update on Teboho Mokoena’s injury, indicating that the midfielder is suffering from a previously identified ligament problem rather than a completely new injury.

The development will offer encouragement to Sundowns supporters following concerns about the influential midfielder’s fitness. Mokoena sustained the setback during the club’s CAF Champions League encounter against Wiliete SC in Angola, raising questions about his availability for the decisive second leg.

The first meeting between the two sides ended in a goalless draw, leaving Sundowns with work to do in the return fixture. With a place in the group stages at stake, the Pretoria-based club will be eager to have its key players available for the important encounter.

Mokoena was unable to continue after experiencing discomfort during the first leg of the second preliminary round tie. His substitution prompted concerns among supporters, particularly given his importance to the team’s midfield structure.

However, Cardoso’s explanation suggests the situation could be manageable. The Portuguese coach revealed that the injury involved the same ligament issue Mokoena experienced while representing South Africa on international duty.

"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 comments indicate that the problem may not keep the midfielder sidelined for an extended period. Nevertheless, his return will depend on how well he responds to treatment and the medical team’s assessment of his condition.

Mokoena remains an important component of the Sundowns squad, offering physical strength, defensive awareness and the ability to support attacking movements. His experience and influence in midfield are particularly valuable in matches where the team must control possession and maintain pressure on its opponents.

The injury concern comes at a crucial stage of Sundowns’ continental campaign. After failing to find the net in Angola, the Brazilians must produce a more effective performance in the return leg at Loftus Versfeld Stadium to improve their chances of advancing to the group phase.

Although Cardoso will be encouraged by the positive assessment, he may still need to consider alternative midfield options if Mokoena is not fully fit. Sundowns possess considerable squad depth, which could help them manage the situation without placing unnecessary pressure on the injured player.

For now, the update provides renewed hope that Mokoena could return soon. Sundowns will prioritise his recovery while preparing for the decisive fixture, knowing that his fitness could be valuable as they pursue their domestic and continental ambitions.

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