The MTN8 quarter-final clashes offered a compelling snapshot of what lies ahead in the Premier Soccer League for defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns.
Masandawana kicked off their season with a commanding 4-0 victory over Richards Bay, but it was the absence of four key players that truly stole the headlines.
Star quartet Lucas Ribeiro Costa, Peter Shalulile, Khuliso Mudau, and Thembinkosi Lorch were all omitted from the matchday squad, immediately fueling speculation about their futures at the club.
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Head coach Miguel Cardoso remained tight-lipped on the situations of Costa, Shalulile, and Mudau, stating, “I’m not going to discuss it here.”
That being said, he was more direct about Lorch’s situation, confirming that the club is actively working to finalize his departure.
“Lorch is a situation that comes from the past and also will be addressed and solved by the club,” Cardoso explained. “In proper time, you’ll have information that it will be public, considering he is not here for sure.”
Despite the uncertainty surrounding these players, Sundowns’ performance highlighted the team’s incredible depth. Cardoso didn’t hesitate to give opportunities to fringe players, with Keanu Cupido and Zuko Mdunyelwa starting in defense, and young winger Siyabonga Mabena coming off the bench to score a fantastic solo goal.
This masterful display of squad management suggests that Sundowns are well-prepared for a potential squad reshuffle. The club is clearly in a transition phase, and Cardoso has been entrusted with overseeing it.
While they may entertain offers for their star players, the MTN8 win proved that the Brazilians have more than enough quality to maintain their high standards, even with a few of their biggest names missing. This transition could signal a new era for Sundowns, with the focus shifting from established stars to a new generation of talent.