Mamelodi Sundowns news: Transfers, injuries and MTN8 final push headline latest developments

Mamelodi Sundowns are balancing a bid for domestic success with squad changes, injury concerns and growing pressure ahead of the MTN8 semi-final second leg against Golden Arrows.

Sundowns must overturn a 1-0 deficit in the return fixture after Junior Dion scored in the first half at Lucas Moripe Stadium to give Golden Arrows the advantage. Arrows coach Pitso Dladla has called for an aggressive approach in the second leg, while Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso has demanded a change in mentality as his side attempt to end their MTN8 drought.

Cardoso said defensive mistakes contributed to the first-leg defeat and stressed that improvement would be required before the teams meet again. He has also questioned Sundowns’ disciplinary record, arguing that his players need greater protection from referees.

The coach has urged supporters to remain patient with his transitional squad after a 5-2 victory over AmaZulu, despite continuing defensive weaknesses. Sundowns had proved too strong for AmaZulu in the high-scoring league match, although Cardoso still faced defensive work before the MTN8 semi-final.

Cardoso also called for greater backing for Tashreeq Matthews. The forward produced a Man of the Match performance against AmaZulu, and his manager said he should be judged by the way he responds to setbacks.

Antonio van Wyk came off the bench to assist and score as Sundowns overturned Golden Arrows’ first-leg advantage with a 3-2 away win, reaching the MTN8 final on away goals. Cardoso praised the team’s resilience after that comeback.

Sundowns have also strengthened their defensive options by signing former Orlando Pirates right-back Deano van Rooyen. The move follows injuries to Khuliso Mudau and Zuko Mdunyelwa.

Mudau’s Achilles injury has created significant concerns for both Sundowns and Bafana Bafana before the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Questions have been raised over possible replacements and uncertainty around coaching arrangements.

At the other end of the squad, Cardoso has explained why Sundowns are taking a long-term approach with promising attacker Siyanda Ndlovu. Ndlovu has said he was subjected to abuse on social media after a proposed move to Orlando Pirates collapsed.

Cardoso has also revealed the full extent of Monnapule Saleng’s protocol breaches at Sundowns, following reports of ill-discipline and the player’s isolation from the squad.

In the Betway Premiership, Teboho Mokoena scored in the 88th minute as Sundowns beat Golden Arrows 2-1 at King Zwelithini Stadium. Defender Khulumani Ndamane has targeted another important victory against Arrows on Sunday, with the aim of moving Sundowns to the top of the league standings.

Sundowns also defeated Milford 2-0 at Loftus Versfeld, drawing level on points with Orlando Pirates at the summit. Milford coach Pupuma questioned the consistency of refereeing decisions after the defeat.

Goalkeeper Ronwen Williams’ leadership and quality remain central to Sundowns’ ambitions as he prepares to guide Bafana Bafana into their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Left-back Fawaaz Basadien has credited belief and consistency for his resurgence this season after overcoming early difficulties to rediscover his form. Meanwhile, South African midfielder Sipho Mbule scored a spectacular goal and supplied an assist for Zakho SC in the Iraqi Stars League, helping revive his career.

Kaizer Chiefs could yet regret releasing Thabo Cele if the midfielder joins Sundowns, particularly after he helped the club win its only trophy of the past decade.

AmaZulu coach Arthur Zwane has pointed to his side’s lack of attacking depth after Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya suffered cramps late in the 5-2 midweek defeat by Sundowns.