It was the question on every South African football fan’s lips — where was Themba Zwane?
As Mamelodi Sundowns battled Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League final, the veteran midfielder and club legend remained anchored to the bench, his boots untouched, his presence silent.
In a match of such magnitude, the absence of one of Sundowns’ most influential figures sparked immediate speculation and a flurry of questions — none of which head coach Miguel Cardoso seemed willing to answer following their’ 3–2 aggregate defeat to the Egyptian club.
Zwane, a stalwart in Sundowns’ history and a pivotal figure in their 2016 Champions League title-winning campaign, remained an unused substitute throughout the decisive matches.
During Sunday’s post-match press conference Cardoso was pressed for clarity regarding the absence of Zwane. The Portuguese tactician, however, offered only a vague response, hinting at the need for midfield balance and a strategic approach to the game.
“I understand what you are looking for, but now is not the time to discuss individual player performances,” said Cardoso, while acknowledging Zwane’s significance.
“This group is very qualified, with a lot of quality players. Themba is one of them.”
The specifics of Zwane’s omission were left unaddressed, fuelling speculation and adding an air of mystery to the situation.
“It’s not just about accepting the loss; it’s about recognising that we didn’t play to the standard we should have in the initial stages of the game. We needed to approach the game differently,” Cardoso said, underscoring his focus on the team’s overall performance rather than individual contributions.
At 35, Zwane had recently returned to full fitness after recovering from an Achilles tendon rupture, sustained while representing South Africa internationally. Despite this, he had played only a peripheral role this season, featuring in 12 matches — just three of them starts — and registering a single assist.
Yet, his contributions were vital in April’s semi-final against Al Ahly, where his late impact helped Sundowns secure a dramatic passage to their first CAF Champions League final in seven years. His pressing led to a crucial own goal by Al Ahly defender Yasser Ibrahim in the dying moments of the second leg.
As the team now shifts its focus to the Fifa Club World Cup, which kicks off on June 18 in the US, the question remains: will Zwane be part of Cardoso’s plans?
With Sundowns drawn in Group F alongside Ulsan HD of Korea, Germany’s Borussia Dortmund, and Brazil’s Fluminense, Cardoso’s selections will be under close scrutiny.
The allure of Zwane’s experience and popularity among fans may yet prompt the coach to reconsider, as supporters hope to see their icon return to the global stage.
