Beaten Miguel Cardoso refuses to give satisfying answer on why Themba Zwane didn't feature in Mamelodi Sundowns Caf Champions League against Pyramids - 'It's not time to speak about individual performances'

Mamelodi Sundowns were beaten 3-2 on aggregate by Pyramids, losing the Caf Champions League title.

It was a heartbreaking result for the Premier Soccer League champions, who last won the competition in 2016.

The title was one of the reasons why Miguel Cardoso was brought to the team after initial struggles.

One of the players who didn't feature in the two-legged loss is Themba Zwane.

The 35-year-old is one of the most experienced players in the team, and his versatility has in the past worked in favour of the PSL heavyweights.

He has been sparingly used by Cardoso since his return from injury, making seven appearances from the bench since April.

The fans expected the Bafana Bafana star to be given a chance against Pyramids, but that didn't happen, something which irked the fans.

The 53-year-old has since explained why the creative attacker wasn't played.

I totally understand what kind of answer you want or you’re looking for, but it’s not time to speak about individual performances of players,” he responded to the media.

With the Fifa Club World Cup coming, it seems Cardoso has already decided Zwane will be a part-time player.

This might work against Zwane, especially ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

The midfielder has to have a conversation with his coach on his role in the team as he nears retirement.