Mamelodi Sundowns head coach, Miguel Cardoso, provides injury update on Malibongwe Khoza
Malibongwe Khoza, who has made nine appearances in all competitions this season, suffered an ankle injury during his team's 5-1 first-leg CAF Champions League qualifying victory against Remo Stars in Nigeria.
As a result, the reigning Betway Premiership champions will be without the young defender when they face Orlando Pirates at Loftus Versfeld Stadium this Saturday.
Regarding Khoza's condition, Cardoso stated, “Mali [Khoza] got injured in the Remo match. He didn’t break any bones, but he had an issue with his ankle, and he’s recovering. This has unfortunately disrupted his recovery process.”
Prior to his injury, the 21-year-old had established himself firmly in the Sundowns defense, starting in eight consecutive matches.
Cardoso acknowledged the intense competition for positions at Mamelodi Sundowns, saying, “A slight lack of luck or a bad performance can sometimes remove you from the pitch. However, Mali is still injured and will not be available for the upcoming international break.”
In addition to Khoza’s injury, Cardoso addressed the need for improved football facilities and coaching standards in South Africa. “Football improves when played on better pitches. This responsibility lies with the PSL to find solutions. Many clubs utilize municipal stadiums, while Loftus Versfeld stands out as it is privately owned.”
He continued, “If we focus merely on the ownership of the pitches and accept them as city council properties, we risk stagnating progress in elevating the standard of our football.”
Fans and stakeholders in the sport hope that Saturday’s match outcome will be determined by the players’ performances rather than compromised pitch conditions.
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