Sundowns coach explains Themba Zwane’s Champions League final snub

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has addressed the exclusion of veteran midfielder Themba Zwane from both legs of the 2025 CAF Champions League final, which saw the Tshwane giants suffer a 3-2 on aggregate to Pyramids FC.

The Brazilians’ campaign ended in disappointment after a 1-1 draw in Pretoria a week ago, where they conceded a late equaliser to Walid El Karti. In the decisive second leg at the 30 June Stadium on Sunday night, Pyramids secured an early lead through Fiston Mayele, capitalising on a defensive error by Grant Kekana.

Ahmed Samy doubled their advantage in the 56th minute, setting a formidable challenge for Sundowns. Despite Iqraam Rayners pulling a goal back in the 75th minute, it wasn’t enough to overturn the deficit, marking Cardoso’s second consecutive CAF Champions League final loss.

When pressed on why the Bafana Bafana midfielder wasn’t utilised, Cardoso emphasised the depth of his squad.

“I understand what you’re looking for, but now isn’t the time to discuss individual player performances,” Cardoso explained. “This group is very qualified, with a lot of quality players, and obviously Themba is one of them.” He had previously indicated the need for midfield balance and a reluctance to risk introducing Zwane.

Zwane, 35, recently returned to fitness after an Achilles tendon rupture sustained while on international duty.

Since his recovery, he has played a peripheral role, featuring in 12 matches for Sundowns this season with three starts and one assist.

His impactful return, however, was highlighted in the semi-finals against Al Ahly, where his involvement contributed to a late goal that secured Sundowns’ place in their first CAF Champions League final since winning the title in 2016.