'A big loss for South Africa' — Miguel Cardoso confirms 'very severe' injury to Khuliso Mudau

Mamelodi Sundowns manager Miguel Cardoso has disclosed that right-back Khuliso Mudau sustained a "very, very severe injury" during the Betway Premiership match against Marumo Gallants at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday. The incident occurred in the 37th minute following a collision, forcing Mudau to be stretchered off and replaced by Zuko Mdunyelwa.

Cardoso lamented the loss, stating that Mudau's absence would significantly impact both South Africa and the club. Mudau, a key player for Bafana Bafana during the recent FIFA World Cup in the US and Mexico, will hamper the national team's preparations. South Africa's upcoming AFC Cup qualifiers against Guinea and Eritrea, along with future encounters against Kenya, may suffer as a result.

Cardoso expressed frustration at the timing of the injury, emphasizing that Mudau's harm was not due to a tackle. The manager acknowledged that setbacks are inevitable in sports, but he remains optimistic that the team can overcome this challenge.