Mamelodi Sundowns boosted by Teboho Mokoena and Aubrey Modiba injury updates

Mamelodi Sundowns have been handed a boost before their MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates, with Teboho Mokoena expected to recover in time for the match at Moses Mabhida Stadium on 10 October.

The midfielder was left out of Bafana Bafana’s 5-0 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying victory over Eritrea in Cairo after sustaining an injury during South Africa’s 2-1 win against Guinea in Soweto.

There had initially been concern about the seriousness of Mokoena’s injury. However, reports indicate those fears have eased and that the Sundowns player is on course to return for the meeting with Pirates.

Mokoena has established himself as an important figure for both the reigning domestic champions and Bafana Bafana. His possible return would therefore provide a significant lift to Sundowns as they prepare for an early-season final.

His absence was felt during the victory over Eritrea, although Pitso Mosimane’s side still collected maximum points to make it two wins from two in their Group D qualifying campaign.

Modiba also expected back

Sundowns could also welcome back defender Aubrey Modiba for the MTN8 final.

Modiba missed the Eritrea match after being injured in the win over Guinea, but he is reportedly expected to regain fitness before domestic action resumes.

The return of both Mokoena and Modiba would give Sundowns additional selection options for a final against an Orlando Pirates team also seeking an early piece of silverware.

There remains less certainty over the condition of Bathusi Aubaas, however.

Aubaas came into the starting line-up against Eritrea after replacing the injured Mokoena, but his involvement lasted only part of the match before he was forced off during South Africa’s emphatic win.

Sundowns are still waiting for a full assessment of the injury. Until that is completed, the club will not have a clear indication of how long Aubaas might be unavailable.

Sundowns target first trophy of campaign

The MTN8 final gives Sundowns the chance to win their first silverware of the domestic season, but they must overcome Pirates in Durban to do so.

Mokoena and Modiba will now concentrate on completing their rehabilitation, while Sundowns hope both players can reach full fitness before the match.

The international schedule provides them with further recovery time. Bafana Bafana’s next Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers are not due to take place until November, meaning the injured players have additional time to recover before returning to action.