Positive signs for Sundowns defender Khuliso Mudau after Achilles surgery

Mamelodi Sundowns right-back Khuliso Mudau is making steady progress in his recovery, seven weeks after rupturing his Achilles tendon in the match against Marumo Gallants on 19 August.

Mudau has undergone successful surgery and is now wearing a moonboot as he begins the rehabilitation process. He is also reporting for gym sessions at Chloorkop, where his recovery will be closely monitored because of the seriousness of the injury.

Although he remains some distance from a return to on-field training, the early indications are that his rehabilitation is progressing smoothly.

The injury is expected to keep Mudau out until next year. Sundowns have played eight matches since he was hurt, and that figure could rise to 30 before he is available again.

Mudau has already missed the African-Asian-Pacific Cup and will not feature in the MTN8 final, Carling KnockOut, Challenger Cup or CAF Super Cup. He will also be unavailable for Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League matches during his recovery.

His absence will extend to Bafana Bafana’s 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, which is being played across three blocks from September until March.

Should Bafana Bafana qualify for the AFCON finals in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, scheduled for 19 June – 17 July, Mudau could still come into contention for selection if he has regained match fitness and accumulated club minutes by then.

Sundowns have had to adjust their options at right-back in his absence. Thabang Matuludi and Deano van Rooyen have joined Zuko Mdunyelwa and Thapelo Morena among the available players for the position.

The club have also received encouraging news elsewhere in the squad, with Monnapule Saleng and Keanu Cupido returning to full training.