Can Themba Zwane's return be Mamelodi Sundowns' trump card in crucial Caf Champions League trip to Al Ahly? - 'He's very influential in the team'

Themba Zwane came on as a second-half substitute when Mamelodi Sundowns hosted Al Ahly in a Caf Champions League semi-final, first leg match at Loftus Versfeld last Saturday.

It was the first time for Zwane to be involved in competitive football since October 2024.

While there are fears that the Brazilians' captain could be rusty after a long injury layoff, his teammate Denis Onyango does not doubt the capabilities of the 35-year-old.

"It was very good [to have Zwane back], you could see the stadium was up. He is the captain of the team, and it was very good to have him back on the field after a very long time," said Onyango as per KickOff.

"He's very influential to the team, and the youngsters love him, the country loves him, and the team loves him. When he is on the pitch, things happen. He looks after the ball and looks for the [crucial] passes. 

"So, we hope that he gets the match fitness he needs and helps the team towards the end of the season." 

Zwane is back at a time when Sundowns have reached a critical moment of their season.

The Brazilians are in Cairo for the Caf Champions League semi-final, second-leg match against Al Ahly.

It is game Sundowns need experience to navigate their way past the defending champions and reach the final and Zwane is one of the players they would look up to.

With the Brazilians currently in Cairo, it is to be seen if Sundowns coach Miguel Cardoso will select Zwane in his starting lineup on Friday.

If picked to start, Zwane will be carrying a huge weight on his shoulders to inspire his team into the final.