Themba Zwane. Photo credit: Mamelodi Sundowns
Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso is anxiously awaiting a medical report on star midfielder Themba Zwane, who suffered another injury setback during the team’s 3-0 victory over Magesi FC on Sunday.
The experienced midfielder recently returned to the matchday squad after being sidelined for months due to an injury that also saw him miss the national team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Zwane’s highly anticipated return as a second-half substitute was short-lived, as he had to leave the pitch in the 63rd minute after appearing to pull a muscle. With all five substitutions already used, the Brazilians were forced to finish the match with ten men.
So far in the 2025/26 campaign, the 36-year-old has only featured in four matches across all competitions and has yet to find his best form due to persistent injuries.
Speaking on SuperSport TV after the commanding win, Cardoso expressed his concern but remained hopeful that the injury isn’t serious.
“We are happy with the results, but it’s clear that we were not satisfied, especially with the players at the front,” Cardoso said. “The message at half-time was a little bit strong, but it had to be so that we could wake up, and the mission is done.”
Regarding Zwane’s injury, the Portuguese tactician said, “With Themba Zwane, we have to see what is happening. As I understand the doctors, the injury is not what he had before. Let’s hope it’s nothing serious.”
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