Mamelodi Sundowns could be without seven of their players when they face Kaizer Chiefs in the MTN8 semifinal clash on Saturday.
Sundowns missed five of their players against Orlando Pirates on Wednesday due to injury. The defending DStv Premiership champions emerged 1-0 victors in the tightly contested match.
Neo Maema was out due to a foot problem, while Sammy Seabi continues on the sidelines due to a calf injury. Bafana Bafana midfielder Bathusi Aubaas has a groin issue while Abubeker Nasir is nursing a groin injury. Academy prodigy Siyanda Nyanga is still out due to a shoulder injury.
Downs take on Kaizer Chiefs in the return leg of the MTN8 on Saturday. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw away at FNB Stadium two weeks ago. Masandawana were dealt a fresh blow on Wednesday when the duo of Khuliso Mudau and Mothobi Mvala picked their fourth yellow cards.
The setback means they will also miss the Chiefs clash due to suspension. Both players will serve a one-match suspension.
MUDAU AND MVALA TO MISS CHIEFS CLASH
Their absence is a blow for Mamelodi Sundowns, who are desperate to win the MTN8 which they last won in the 2021/22 season. The Brazilians were knocked out of the competition at the semi-final stage last season by Pirates. They will be determined to go all the way this year.
However, they will have to do it without Mudau and Mvala, who are two of their key defenders. Mudau has been a regular starter at right back for Sundowns this season, while Mvala is coach Rulani Mokwena’s trusted lieutenant at centre back.
In their absence, Mokwena is likely to field Thapelo Morena at right back and Grant Kekana in central defence.
Amakhosi are smarting from a 1-0 defeat to SuperSport United and they will be looking to bounce back to winning ways. The MTN8 presents them with the possibility of clinching a cup to end a lengthy trophy drought.
They have a number of attacking players who can hurt Sundowns, including Ashley Du Preez, Tebogo Potsane, and Pule Mmodi.
Sundowns will need to be solid in defence if they want to keep a clean sheet. And give themselves a chance of winning the second leg at home. Without Mudau and Mvala, they will need to rely on their other defenders to step up and produce results.
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