Cardoso provides update on Themba Zwane ahead of Pirates tie

Mamelodi Sundowns will be without one of their key creative forces for Saturday’s colossal Betway Premiership clash against rivals Orlando Pirates at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.

Head coach Miguel Cardoso has dampened hopes of a dramatic return for veteran midfielder Themba Zwane, confirming that the talismanic player is still recovering from injury and will not feature in the much-anticipated derby.

Themba Zwane’s Recovery: Separate Training Continues

The Bafana Bafana international, nicknamed ‘Mshishi’, has endured a frustrating start to the 2025/26 season, missing significant time due to a long-term injury setback.

Speaking from the Chloorkop training base on Thursday, Cardoso provided a clear update on the star player’s status:

“You saw him [Themba Zwane] on the training pitch; he was training separately from the group. So he’s still not integrated in the group,” Cardoso explained.

“What it means is that he’s still not available for this match, and he’s not in a moment to return to training or to perform… We need to understand that Themba Zwane had an injury and had another one after returning. We really want him to come back to play for Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana. That’s what we’re going to do, be patient enough not to take risks.”

The Gauteng Derby Build-up

The news is a blow for Masandawana fans, though the team has shown solid form despite Zwane’s absence. Sundowns enjoyed a week of preparation following the postponement of their midweek league fixture, fresh off a dominant 7-1 aggregate victory over Remo Stars of Nigeria to secure their CAF Champions League group stage spot.

Meanwhile, their Soweto rivals, Orlando Pirates, enter the match on a high, having found their rhythm with a recent 2-1 win against Magesi FC in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-final.

Despite Zwane’s continued absence, the stage is set for a thrilling battle for three vital points between the two giants of South African football.