Khuliso Mudau suffers ruptured Achilles in blow to Mamelodi Sundowns

Mamelodi Sundowns defender Khuliso Mudau has ruptured his Achilles and is expected to face a lengthy spell out after suffering the injury during Wednesday’s 2-0 victory over Marumo Gallants.

The right-back was forced to leave the pitch on a stretcher during the first half after appearing to sustain a serious injury. He was replaced by Zuko Mdunyelwa in the 38th minute.

Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso confirmed the extent of the problem after the final whistle, describing Mudau’s injury as a major setback for both the club and South Africa.

“I think Mudau has a very severe injury,” he said on SuperSport TV.

“It’s obviously for a player with his caliber, his quality, it’s a big loss for South Africa and for us especially.”

Cardoso was then asked whether Mudau had suffered an Achilles injury. He confirmed that the initial assessment pointed to that diagnosis, while explaining that it had not resulted from a challenge by an opposing player.

“We believe so, it’s a very, very severe injury,” he added.

The coach said the injury occurred away from the main action and that the club had reviewed the incident before reaching its conclusion.

“He got injured outside the pitch in that action. I thought it was the one in the middle, but no. We reviewed the action. This one was not form a tackle, unfortunately Teboho is still not ok from that first match.

“This one was occasional. It happens, there are accidents in F1, there are injuries in football.

“But it’s a big loss. I hope the others race for the challenge ahead, of course.”

Cardoso later provided a further update during his post-match press conference, confirming that Mudau had ruptured his Achilles.

The injury occurred as Sundowns secured a two-goal win over Marumo Gallants, although the result was overshadowed by the loss of one of their key defenders.

Mudau had been unable to continue after the incident and received treatment before being taken from the field. Mdunyelwa came on with 38 minutes played and completed the match in his place.

Cardoso’s comments indicate that Mudau’s absence could extend beyond the club’s next fixture, although no specific recovery timetable was given.

The coach also acknowledged the wider significance of the injury, saying Mudau’s quality made the setback particularly damaging for Sundowns and South Africa.

Sundowns will now have to manage the loss of the right-back as they prepare for the challenges ahead, with Cardoso calling on the rest of his squad to respond to the setback.