Sundowns leave Mokoena and Modiba decisions for MTN8 final until late

Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso says decisions on the availability of Teboho Mokoena, Aubrey Modiba and Bathusi Aubaas for Saturday’s MTN8 Final against Orlando Pirates will be made as late as possible.

The match between the bitter rivals will be played at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with Sundowns’ preparations affected by injuries suffered during the recent international break.

Midfielder Mokoena remains a major doubt after sustaining an injury while on duty with Bafana Bafana during their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Left-back Modiba and midfielder Aubaas also picked up knocks during the break, with Aubaas forced off in the first half of South Africa’s qualifier against Eritrea.

Cardoso provided a cautious update during Sundowns’ media open day, stressing that the club would not take unnecessary risks with any player who was not fully ready.

“Yesterday we had a first evaluation of the players. The players were seen by doctors, and today we will have a better opportunity to check them,” Cardoso said.

“I believe those cases will be until the last minute, but as you understand, we cannot risk, especially on muscle injuries like the ones Aubrey and Aubaas had. We cannot risk to put a player, in case they are not ready.”

The Portuguese coach said there were encouraging signs in the players’ recoveries, without confirming that any of them would be available.

“I am not saying they are not [available] because obviously there are signs that evolution was pretty good,” he added.

“They were not a major injury. Teboho is progressing, but let’s see.

“Those will be last minute decisions because we have not only to think about this game, but what impact it has not only on this game”.

Mokoena’s possible absence would be a significant concern for the CAF Champions League champions. He is a central figure in Sundowns’ midfield, helping to direct their transition play and providing stability in important matches.

Cardoso must therefore weigh the importance of the final against the potential longer-term consequences of selecting players before they have fully recovered.

Victory would carry particular significance for Sundowns because Orlando Pirates have dominated the MTN8 in recent seasons. Pirates have won the past four editions and are seeking an unprecedented fifth consecutive title.

Sundowns’ success would end that run and deliver the trophy to Chloorkop, while also representing an important statement under Cardoso’s leadership.