Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Manqoba Mngqithi has confirmed that midfielder Rivaldo Coetzee has suffered a serious ACL injury.
Sundowns exacted revenge on Polokwane City with a 2-0 win at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Wednesday thanks to a brace by youngster Kutlwano Letlhaku.
The Brazilians moved to second in the Betway Premiership standings on 18 points, behind only Orlando Pirates by three points.
Wednesday’s victory though was overshadowed by the news of Coetzee’s long-term injury suffered in a 3-0 win over Cape Town City last week Wednesday.
“Reeva’s one is a serious injury, probably four months out if not more,” Mngqithi said.
“It’s his ACL and he has to go for an operation this coming week, but it’s a bad one.”
Mngqithi confirmed that what made Coetzee’s injury even more unfortunate is that he was not intended to feature against Cape Town City, as he was introduced as a late substitution in the 84th minute after Bathusi Aubaas suffered a knock after being on the receiving end of a bad tackle.
In worrying footage, Coetzee’s right leg was shown to give way without any impact before going to ground clutching his knee.
“I hope he’ll come back when we need him the most in the latter stages of the season,” Mngqithi concluded.”
Sundowns will next face Marumo Gallants in the semi-finals of the Carling Knockout Cup on Sunday with the Brazilians clear favourites.
Kick-off is at 15:00.
🔝 atmosphere, 🔝 win in front of our incredible Loftus support! 🤍#Sundowns #BetwayPrem #RabatsenaGape pic.twitter.com/6cYgVUPH0g
— Mamelodi Sundowns FC (@Masandawana) November 7, 2024
