The injury to Khuliso Mudau presents a serious challenge for both Mamelodi Sundowns and the national team 'Bafana Bafana' ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The right-back sustained an Achilles injury during a match against Marumo Gallants mid-week and is reportedly facing six to seven months on the sidelines. This loss is a significant blow to Sundowns, but its impact could be even more critical for Bafana Bafana, as only one month remains before the Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign begins.
Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso confirmed that Khuliso Mudau suffered a 'very, very serious injury' during the match against Marumo Gallants at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday. Although Sundowns has squad depth allowing for replacements, the situation is much more complicated for Bafana.
Mudau was one of South Africa's key players during their historic World Cup campaign. Replacing him is complicated by uncertainty regarding his substitute. Tabang Matuludi, who served as Mudau's backup for Bafana during the World Cup, has yet to feature this season.
An additional problem is that Mudau is involved in contractual disputes with Polokwane City, meaning the national team might enter the September qualifiers without one of the two players who occupied the right-back position at the World Cup. This raises serious concerns.
The situation is compounded by the fact that Bafana also lacks clarity regarding its next permanent head coach. Reports indicate that negotiations between SAFA and Pitso Mosimane over the vacant position have reached an impasse, leaving the squad uncertain on the bench while the roster suffers from injuries.
South Africa has scheduled matches against Guinea from September 23rd to 25th, followed by a trip to Asmara to face Eritrea from September 27th to 29th. The qualifiers will begin in just one month.
It is reported that at least seven players who participated in Bafana's historic World Cup campaign are currently dealing with health issues, with at least five of them having played in tournament matches. Among the main concerns are Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who started all four of Bafana's World Cup matches. Evidens McGopa and Talente Mbatla are also injured, and Tebogo Mokoe's fitness requires close monitoring due to his importance in midfield. Other affected players include Khulhumani Ndamane and Tshepang Moremi. Furthermore, there is the heartbreaking loss of Jayden Adams, who was becoming an increasingly influential figure in the national team before his passing.
Mudau's absence is particularly problematic because he brings experience, speed, defensive strength, and the ability to contribute offensively to Bafana. While Sundowns can restructure its ranks, Bafana may be forced to completely rebuild the position while simultaneously dealing with uncertainty about who will lead the team in the qualifiers. Without Matuludi, the issue of the national team's right-back becomes far more extensive than simply finding a replacement for Mudau.