Injuries test Sundowns’ depth as Cardoso plots another CAF Champions League push

Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso is looking forward to his players returning injury-free following the Fifa international break.

The club is bracing for an intense schedule of first-round CAF Champions League group-stage fixtures, starting a week after Bafana Bafana play Zambia on Friday. 

Injuries have plagued the squad, but with reinforcements only on the horizon in January, Cardoso is eager to see his team back to full strength.

The Sundowns mentor has specifically mentioned the recovery of captain Themba Zwane and promising young talent Malibongwe Khoza, whose return from injury would significantly bolster the squad. However, the long-term absence of defender Mothobi Mvala raises concerns, compelling the club to consider potential reinforcements seriously.

“It’s important to understand that regarding the squad, no coach is ever pleased, even if they say they are,” Cardoso remarked, reflecting a sentiment common among managers who strive for excellence.

“All coaches want to improve the level (standard) of their squad. January is still far away, and for now, we should focus on getting the best from the players we have. There is a lot of potential in those who have not played regularly.”

Cardoso expressed optimism that a few players will return in the coming weeks. “We hope that in two weeks, some players will be back. That makes me happy because we have players within the squad who can strengthen us,” adding that it will lift the spirits of Sundowns’ supporters ahead of a demanding campaign.

When starting their CAF campaign, Sundowns will face Angola’s Saint-Eloi Lupopo in the first round of group stages, a prestigious competition in which the club has impressively qualified 11 times consecutively.

Cardoso, who has unfortunately lost the past two Champions League finals, admitted that his focus had initially been on recent encounters against local rivals Pirates and TS Galaxy.

“Now that the players are on international duty, we will start preparing for the Champions League once they return,” he confirmed.

In Group C of the tournament, Sundowns will face tough competitors, including Sudan’s Al Hilal and Algerian champions MC Alger, managed by former Sundowns mentor Rulani Mokwena.

Following the opening match against Lupopo, Sundowns will face MC Alger away just a week later. There’s also a midweek clash against Polokwane City in the Betway Premiership, although the PSL might grant some relief by postponing the fixture.

Meanwhile, in another highlight, Cardoso has been nominated for the prestigious 2025 IFFHS Club Coach of the Year award, presented by the Zurich-based International Federation of Football History & Statistics.

This nomination not only showcases Cardoso’s significant achievements with Sundowns but also reflects the growing respect South African football commands on the global stage.

Cardoso vies for this esteemed accolade alongside revered coaches such as Luis Enrique from Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta.

He took to social media to share his joy. “I am delighted to have been nominated for the 2025 Club Coach of the Year award by the IFFHS.

“It is recognition for a fantastic year at FC Mamelodi Sundowns, where we accumulated victories, excellent performances, trophies, records, and prestige. It will always be a testament to the work of my players, coaches, and the structure I belong to! A special kiss to my family! Thank you all! Let’s go for more!”