Mamelodi Sundowns and Bafana Bafana have suffered a major setback after Khuliso Mudau was ruled out for up to six months with an Achilles tendon injury.
Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso confirmed the disappointing news ahead of the club’s MTN8 semi-final clash with Golden Arrows.
Mudau sustained the injury during Sundowns’ 2-0 Betway Premiership victory over Marumo Gallants on Wednesday. The right-back was forced off during the match after suffering what initially appeared to be a serious injury.
Khuliso Mudau Faces Lengthy Spell on the Sidelines
Cardoso revealed that discussions with the Sundowns medical team confirmed the severity of Mudau’s injury.
The defender is expected to spend several months recovering before he can return to full training, with a potential comeback between February and March 2027.
“I spoke to the team doctor this morning. It’s confirmed that Mudau ruptured his Achilles, and he will be out of action for up to six months,” Cardoso said.
The injury represents a significant blow for Sundowns, particularly with the club competing on multiple fronts this season.
Mudau has established himself as one of the country’s leading right-backs and has also become an important member of the Bafana Bafana squad.
Bafana Bafana Also Hit by Mudau Injury
The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate for South Africa, with Bafana Bafana preparing for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
The national team is scheduled to begin its qualifiers in September, facing Guinea before travelling to Eritrea for their second fixture.
Mudau’s absence means the incoming Bafana Bafana coach will have to find an alternative at right-back as the national team begins its qualification campaign.
The defender is also not the only Bafana player facing an extended absence, with Mbekezeli Mbokazi also dealing with an injury setback.
Sundowns Must Find a Solution
Mudau’s lengthy absence could force Sundowns to reconsider their options at right-back, especially given the demands of the domestic and continental calendar.
The club could potentially turn to players already within the squad or explore the transfer market for additional cover.
For Bafana Bafana, the challenge is equally significant. Replacing an established international defender will not be straightforward, and the national team will need to find a reliable solution before the AFCON qualifiers begin.
For now, the priority will be Mudau’s recovery as Sundowns and Bafana supporters wait for the defender to make his return.
