Mamelodi Sundowns Coach Miguel Cardoso Provides Injury Update on Teboho Mokoena Ahead of CAF Champions League Return Leg
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has provided an update on Teboho Mokoena's injury after the midfielder was forced off during the club's 0-0 draw against Wiliete SC in the CAF Champions League on Sunday evening. The South African champions were unable to find a breakthrough in the first leg of their second preliminary round tie against the Angolan side, leaving the contest finely balanced ahead of the return fixture.
Mokoena's early departure added to Sundowns' concerns as they prepare for a decisive match in Tshwane. The Bafana Bafana international experienced discomfort around a ligament that he had previously injured while on national team duty.
Cardoso confirmed that further medical examinations would be conducted to determine the extent of the latest setback, leaving the midfielder's availability for the second leg uncertain. Mokoena was forced to leave the field approximately five minutes before half-time after picking up a knock during the encounter against Wiliete SC.
The midfielder could not continue, prompting Cardoso to introduce Bathusi Aubaas as his replacement. His departure was a concern for Sundowns because of the important role he plays in the team's midfield, where his passing, defensive work and ability to control possession contribute to the team's overall performance.
Mokoena is also an established member of the South African national team, making his fitness important to both club and country. Although the initial signs raised concerns, the full extent of the injury remained unknown immediately after the match.
Speaking after the goalless draw, Cardoso explained that Mokoena had experienced discomfort around a ligament previously affected during his time with Bafana Bafana. The Portuguese coach acknowledged the midfielder's importance to the team and highlighted the experience he brings to a squad that also includes several younger players.
Cardoso's comments indicated that the latest problem involved an area that had already required attention, although he did not confirm that the midfielder had suffered a serious new injury. The coaching staff were therefore waiting for medical assessments before making any firm conclusions about his condition.
For Sundowns, the priority was to establish the nature of the problem and determine whether Mokoena would be available for the upcoming fixture. Cardoso explained that the club did not yet know the severity of the injury because Mokoena had been unable to continue playing.
He also expressed hope that the problem would not be serious and that the midfielder could recover in time for the next match. The coach confirmed that Mokoena would undergo medical examinations on Monday to provide a clearer picture of his condition.