Cardoso Raises Concerns Over Mokoena’s Injury Recurrence Following Wiliete Draw

October 19, 2026 sportnow Mamelodi Sundowns manager Miguel Cardoso has shared a worrisome update regarding midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who had to leave the field during their CAF Champions League match against Wiliete. The Brazilians faced a scoreless draw against the Angolan team in the first leg of the second preliminary round at Estadio Nacional da Tundavala in Lubango on Sunday afternoon.

Mokoena sustained the injury just before half-time after a tackle from Wiliete’s Bocar Sidibe. He was unable to continue and was substituted by Bathusi Aubaas.

In his post-match comments, Cardoso disclosed that Mokoena has a concern with a ligament that he had previously injured while representing Bafana Bafana.

“Concerning Teboho, he has a minor issue with the ligament that was hurt during his time with the national team,” Cardoso explained.

“Currently, we are unsure of the severity of the injury, but he was unable to finish the match.

“He is scheduled for examinations tomorrow (Monday), and we hope for a positive outcome, allowing him to be fit for the next game.”

Sundowns also played without Bafana Bafana captain Ronwen Williams, who was omitted from the matchday squad, with Ricardo Goss taking the role in goal.

Cardoso clarified that Williams’ exclusion was a precaution after the goalkeeper felt discomfort following a collision in Saturday’s training session.

“Ronwen had a small issue from a contact during yesterday’s (Saturday’s) training and felt some pain,” he noted.

“We believed it was essential to safeguard him from any potential problems that could worsen or endanger him in the future.

“We don’t anticipate it being a significant issue and hope to have him back soon.”

Sundowns will welcome Wiliete to Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on Friday for the second leg, aiming to secure a victory and advance to the CAF Champions League group stage as they strive to defend their continental title.

The Tshwane giants are hopeful that both Mokoena and Williams can recover in time for this important match. However, Mokoena’s participation will depend on the results of his medical assessments.