More problems for Mamelodi Sundowns & Bafana? 'With Zwane's age, Achilles injury is going to be a big issue'

Themba Zwane was part of the Bafana Bafana squad that played Congo in Group K's 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

However, he was forced out after just 40 minutes due to an Achilles injury with the game eventually ending 1-1.

Sports Physician Dr. Ntlopi Mogoru has now explained why Mshishi might be out for a longer period.

“I don’t know if he’s had this type of injury before but with his age, it is going to be a big issue. If it is a grade one or two, he may need to rest for the next six weeks to two months," he said as quoted by Times LIVE.

“Anything up to grade four will need an operation because they must stitch the tendon to facilitate the healing process. There you are looking at up to four to six months, including rehabilitation. If it's grade one or two, it will be six weeks to two months because they will need to rest the leg for a particular period in the moon boot to keep the fibres together. 

“After the moon boot, he will get sauna while doing upper body exercises and if they are happy with his progress, he must start jogging and running slowly to build up. That is two months minimum. If it needs an operation, he is going to be out for three to four months. 

“It is a serious injury because the tendon supports the ankle from behind and if it goes off it is a serious problem. If it is a complete tear, we are looking at about four to six months and that is the worst-case scenario," Mogoru concluded.

Zwane has been used by Downs to unlock stubborn defences owing to his intelligent moves, and his absence will be a blow to coach Manqoba Mngqithi.

Apart from the Premier Soccer League, Masandawana are taking part in the Carling Knockout and Caf Champions League, meaning Zwane might miss some crucial games.

The 35-year-old is almost certain to miss Bafana Bafana's next Afcon qualifiers against Uganda and South Sudan, respectively.

Broos and the Mzansi nation at large surely hope Zwane will not be out for too long owing to his undeniable quality.

The midfielder is working harder to show his quality for the PSL champions which will determine if he gets another deal after the current one expires.