Mamelodi Sundowns fans anxiously await an update on Peter Shalulile’s fitness ahead of the club’s African Football League (AFL) final against Wydad Casablanca on Sunday, November 12.
The Namibian striker has been sidelined with an ankle injury since the start of the AFL last month, and his absence has been a major blow to the Brazilians.
Downs’ situation has been further complicated by the absence of Lucas Ribeiro Costa and Abubeker Nassir, who are also out nursing injuries.
Sundowns coach Rulani Mokwena on Friday gave a cautiously optimistic update on Shalulile’s fitness, saying they would “make a decision” with his technical staff.“
The medical department is doing such an amazing job, but of course, players respond differently to the recovery protocols.
“We just have to be a little bit patient. We have one more training session to see and to look at. I think together with the rest of the technical staff, we’ll make a decision,” Mokwena told journalists.
WHAT’S THE UPDATE ON PETER SHALULILE?
Indications, though, are that he is making steady progress in training and looks likely to play a part in the final. Sundowns trail Wydad 2-1 from the first leg in Casablanca.
In fact, Shalulile could have played a part in the first leg had it not been for the tricky travelling dynamics after the semi-final in Cairo.
Earlier in the week, speaking to local radio station 947, Mokwena said, “there’s a possibility for sure” regarding Shalulile.
Having played the entire competition without the striking trio of Shalulile, Ribeiro, and Nassir, they will desperately need the Brave Warriors star.
However, he could be cautious not to start him, considering he has been out for a month. In all likelihood, he could bring him on later in the game. Whatever the case, Shalulile’s return would be a timely boost for Sundowns.
He has been one of Sundowns’ important players in recent seasons. This season, he has scored five goals in nine appearances in all competitions.
His pace, power, and finishing ability would be a major asset to Sundowns in the second leg against Wydad.
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