Five matches in around two weeks will test Miguel Cardoso’s squad depth, with Modiba, Mokoena and Aubaas all battling injury problems.
Mamelodi Sundowns are about to be stretched across three fronts. When the domestic season resumes, Miguel Cardoso’s side face the MTN8 final, a CAF Champions League tie and the return of the Betway Premiership, all while the treatment room fills up.
The injury headache
The international window ends with Bafana Bafana’s friendly against Egypt in Cairo on 4 October, and Pitso Mosimane is expected to rotate to give fringe players minutes. Sundowns, though, are more concerned about who is unavailable. Aubrey Modiba, Teboho Mokoena and Bathusi Aubaas have been ruled out of the Egypt game after the AFCON qualifier win over Eritrea on 30 September. Modiba may be fit by next week, but Mokoena and Aubaas remain uncertain. Long-term absentees Khuliso Mudau and Keanu Cupido add to the strain.
Sundowns’ fixtures
- 10 October, 18:00: MTN8 final vs Orlando Pirates, Moses Mabhida Stadium
- 13 October, 19:30: PSL restart vs Richards Bay, Princess Magogo Stadium, KwaMashu
- 17 October, 17:00: CAF Champions League first leg vs Wiliete SC, Ombaka National Stadium, Benguela
- 24 October, 17:00: CAF Champions League second leg vs Wiliete SC, Loftus Versfeld
- 24 October: Carling Knockout Cup begins
Cardoso’s view
Cardoso has embraced the workload, saying the club is proud to be fighting for so many trophies. He has also called on the club, SAFA, the PSL and other stakeholders to work together on scheduling, noting that November’s calendar will not be easy either.
Is this fixture list manageable for Sundowns? Tell us in the comments.
