Cardoso fumes over Mokoena injury
Mamelodi Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso was more concerned about Teboho Mokoena’s injury than celebrating his side’s dramatic victory over TS Galaxy.
Masandawana opened their Betway Premiership campaign with a thrilling 3-2 win at Mbombela Stadium on Tuesday night. However, Mokoena was missing from the matchday squad after suffering an injury against Polokwane City in the MTN8 quarter-final. The Bafana Bafana midfielder was replaced by youngster Gomolemo Kekana as Sundowns battled to secure maximum points.
Brayan León gave Sundowns an early lead from the penalty spot before Victor Letsoalo turned the game around for Galaxy. Sphelele Mkhulise then came off the bench to score twice late in the match and complete a stunning comeback.
Despite the victory, Cardoso used his post-match press conference to raise concerns about the challenge that left Mokoena injured. “Teboho Mokoena was not part of the match today. I think it’s important for South Africa that we protect our players,” Cardoso said.
The Portuguese coach was particularly unhappy that the Polokwane player involved in the challenge was not shown a yellow card. Cardoso also questioned other incidents during the MTN8 encounter, suggesting that two Polokwane players could have been sent off. He believes stronger officiating is needed to protect players, especially those representing South Africa at international level.
For now, Sundowns are waiting for further medical assessments before determining how long Mokoena will remain sidelined.