Rulani Mokwena, the head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns, has provided an update on the Sundowns players injury situation ahead of the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates. The two teams are set to face off this Saturday evening at the Moses Mabhida Stadium.
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Concerns Over Sundowns players ahead of the MTN8 final against Orlando Pirates
A significant concern for the Brazilians is the fitness of Lucas Ribeiro. The Brazilian striker was seen limping off in Saturday’s CAF Champions League 2-0 win against Bumamuru, casting doubts over his availability for Saturday’s final.
Ribeiro, who is 24 years old, scored the only goal when the two teams met last month. His potential absence could be a significant blow for Sundowns.
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Injury Status of Key Players
Mokwena has provided an update on the injury status of several key players. Sipho Mbule, Thapelo Morena, and Bathusi Aubaas have been ruled out of the MTN8 final. The participation of Ribeiro and Thapelo Maseko remains doubtful.
“There’s a lot of work being done by the medical team and the rehab guys, which is very good from a sports science perspective,” Mokwena was quoted on iDiski Times.
Coach’s Focus on Available Players
Despite these setbacks, Mokwena remains focused on the players who are available for selection. “We have to manage the situation as it is and I’m focused mainly on what is on the training pitch and what is available, it doesn’t help to focus on players not available,” said the Sundowns coach.
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