Mamelodi Sundowns have received a major Themba Zwane boost as they enter the business end of the season. Sundowns face a busy next couple of weeks with the Nedbank Cup quarterfinal on Friday night.
Fresh from national duty – at least nine Sundowns players – gear up for the round of eight clash against Sekhukhune United. The match is set for the Lucas Moripe Stadium at 7PM.
On Tuesday, they welcome Esperance of Tunisia to Pretoria for their CAF Champions League first-leg quarterfinal match. Thereafter, they travel to Tunis for the reverse fixture, which takes place a week later.
Masandawana coach Miguel Cardoso will, however, take solace in the imminent return of club captain Zwane. ‘Mshishi’ has been sidelined by an Achilles injury since October last year.
The injury, which occurred during a 2025 AFCON qualifier against Congo Brazzaville, necessitated surgery. In early February, the 35-year-old resumed training with the team in Chloorkop.
WHAT IS THE LATEST ON THEMBA ZWANE’S RETURN FROM INJURY?
Last month, Cardoso said he anticipated Zwane’s availability to play before the end of the 2024/25 season. “For sure, Themba will recover in time, not only for the [FIFA Club] World Cup but also to play before [the season ends],” said Cardoso.
The Bafana Bafana talisman also confirmed that he had been working hard to prepare for his return to action. “In terms of injury, I’m coming alright; I’m starting to run on the side now,” said Zwane on February 6, 2025. “I don’t feel the pain; it’s just the Achilles. It’s tense, but I’m coming, alright. So far so good.”
FARPost has since established that Zwane has received clearance from Sundowns’ medical team to return to play. If Cardoso includes him in the squad for the Esperance match, the veteran midfielder is expected to be on the bench.
Given his experience as one of the few remaining members from the 2016 team that won the Champions League, his presence could prove invaluable for Sundowns.
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