As a passionate supporter of South African football and a keen observer of Mamelodi Sundowns, I couldn't help but feel the weight of disappointment after our narrow defeat in the CAF Champions League final. The match was intense, filled with drama and heart, but one glaring question lingered both during and after the game: Where was Themba Zwane?
Our captain. Our magician. The man who so often carries this team in big moments. To not see "Mshishi" on the pitch in a game of such magnitude left many fans puzzled, frustrated, and desperate for answers.
In the post-match press conference, head coach Miguel Cardoso was inevitably asked about Zwane’s absence. His response, while measured, didn’t do much to calm the storm of speculation.
> “We assessed all options leading up to the final and made a decision based on the tactical demands of the match, the opposition’s strengths, and the physical readiness of our squad. Themba is a leader and remains crucial to our plans, but sometimes difficult decisions have to be made for the benefit of the team,” Cardoso explained.
As diplomatic as that answer may be, it doesn’t quite satisfy. Zwane has not only been fit in recent weeks but has also shown glimpses of his usual brilliance. His creativity, calmness under pressure, and ability to unlock defences are exactly what we lacked in the final third during that game.
I understand that coaches make tactical calls, and Cardoso, being new to the club, is still finding his rhythm with the squad. But leaving out your captain in the biggest match of the season? That’s bold — and risky.
Was Zwane carrying a knock that the public wasn’t made aware of? Was it purely a tactical call to favour high-pressing or more physical players? Or could this be an early sign of a shift in the leadership dynamics under Cardoso?
Whatever the case may be, one thing is clear: Mamelodi Sundowns missed Themba Zwane in that final. His composure, vision, and experience could have been the difference. In games like these, moments of magic are needed — and few can deliver them like Mshishi.
As we reflect on what could have been, the hope is that this decision won’t cause unnecessary tension in the camp. Cardoso must now rally the team and restore confidence. The road to redemption starts now, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s that you never count out Sundowns — or Themba Zwane.
Post a Comment