Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso has highlighted the vital return of defender Mothobi Mvala as the team aims to conclude the season on a high note. For the past four months, the Sundowns hardman has been sidelined due to a knee injury he sustained on December 7, 2024.
Mvala had to be withdrawn and replaced by Mosa Lebusa after 24 minutes during their crunch Champions League tie against AS FAR Rabat. As a result, he has missed crucial matches in the Betway Premiership season, the Champions League and the Nedbank Cup.
In his absence, Sundowns have relied on Lucas Suarez, Grant Kekana, and Lebusa, who have held fort as centre-backs. Cardoso has shared his joy about the Bafana Bafana defender’s return, saying he will bring stability.
As he responded to a question about Themba Zwane’s return after their 0-0 draw with Al Ahly on Saturday, Cardoso took time to open up about Mvala.
WHAT CARDOSO SAID ABOUT DEFENDER MOTHOBI MVALA
Cardoso said Mvala brings a special energy and joy, which he believes will be valuable as they prepare for the CAF Champions League semi-final second leg. They face Al Ahly on Friday, 25 April in Egypt.
“Also, Mothobi is now coming back. So, it’s players with experience, players that have a strong word in the group, players that give stability in the group, that bring joy, that bring animation, that bring energy.
“Of course, we will use them according to the level so that, indeed, they can be powerful for us. As I told you last time I sat here, I believe they will help us until the end of the season for sure,” Cardoso said.
This season, Mvala has only played eight matches across all competitions for the Betway Premiership leaders. Meanwhile, his return to full fitness is undoubtedly music to Bafana Bafana head coach Hugo Broos’ ears.
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