The injury situation around several Mamelodi Sundowns players has added another talking point ahead of the eagerly anticipated MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates.
Sundowns stars Teboho Mokoena, Aubrey Modiba and Bathusi Aubaas have all suffered injury setbacks while on Bafana Bafana duty during the current international window. Mokoena and Aubaas have been ruled out of South Africa’s friendly against Egypt, while Modiba is also recovering from an injury picked up against Guinea.
The timing has attracted attention from some Orlando Pirates supporters, particularly with the two clubs scheduled to meet in the MTN8 final at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 10 October.
Pirates fans question the timing
Some Pirates supporters on social media have questioned whether the injuries could have an impact on the upcoming cup final, with some even speculating that Sundowns players might be being protected ahead of the showdown.
There is, however, no confirmed evidence that the players are being deliberately rested or that the injuries are not genuine.
The available reports indicate that Mokoena and Modiba picked up their injuries during Bafana’s 2-1 victory over Guinea, while Aubaas was forced off after just 12 minutes of the 5-0 win over Eritrea.
Bafana coach Pitso Mosimane has also discussed Aubaas’ setback, revealing that the midfielder was visibly upset after suffering another injury setback.
Sundowns are waiting for medical clarity
For Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso, the focus will now be on determining whether the injured players can recover in time for the MTN8 final.
Mokoena and Modiba are particularly important to the Sundowns setup, while Aubaas provides another midfield option. Sundowns legend Surprise Moriri has backed the squad to cope if any of the players are unavailable, while also expressing hope that the injured stars recover in time for the final.
There are also indications that Mokoena’s injury may not be as serious as initially feared, although his final availability will depend on further assessment.
Pirates face their own Bafana workload
The situation has also highlighted the different workloads facing the two teams.
Both Pirates and Sundowns have players involved with Bafana, meaning the international window carries potential consequences for the MTN8 final.
While Sundowns are monitoring the fitness of several key players, Pirates will also be hoping their internationals return to club duty without injury before the Durban showdown.
With the final only days away, the fitness reports from both camps could become one of the major talking points before kick-off.
Are Pirates fans right to question the timing, or are the injuries simply part of football?
