Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder Themba Zwane says he’s eager to work his way into Miguel Cardoso’s team and reclaim his spot in the squad after a lengthy injury layoff that saw him undergo a prolonged spell on the sidelines.

The Downs talisman suffered an Achilles tendon tear against Congo Brazzaville in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers clash in October last year. Initial assessments suggested the Bafana international would be in line for a return in the latter stages of the season – but the veteran defied the odds.

However, the 35-year-old ace has been training with the club on the sidelines but faces an uphill battle to win over the Portuguese tactician, who took over in December. 

Zwane admits it won’t be an easy task to stake his claim in the team as he bids to be ready for the Club World Cup in June and the continental showpiece later this year.

“It’s difficult [to get into the team], but it goes with the belief if you believe in yourself. I have been in this situation since I came to Sundowns from [Mpumalanga Black] Aces, I’ve been fighting for my position,” said Mshishi, as the player is affectionately known.

“I know for sure it’s not easy because we have a lot of quality players, but the difference is the mindset. If you believe in yourself and are mentally strong, you’ll do it. I think I’ve got those [belief and strong mentality].”

On his injury progress, the long-serving Sundowns player, who joined the club in January 2011, says he is now able to run on the field without feeling any pain, but warns he’s not out of the woods yet – suggesting he’s still some way off full recovery.

“It was difficult at first, but with the support of my family and team, I had to push myself. I’m happy at the moment, I’m running outside [on the grass], I’m not feeling any pain, it’s just that the Achilles is tight at the moment. But overall, I think so far so good,” Zwane added.

“Knowing that there’s AFCON and the Club World Cup coming made me push more so that I can come back quicker and try to adjust quicker into the team so that I can play.” 

While he is not expected to play any part in the upcoming clash against Orlando Pirates at Loftus Stadium on Saturday, Zwane has shared insights on how he believes the Brazilians can mastermind a win over Jose Riveiro’s men.

“It’s an exciting game and they are a good team, and you can say the same about us. I think for us we plan to go at them, we should put more pressure, and be consistent in what we are doing. Our defense is proper, I think we have a chance to win,” he continued.

The two sides will collide in what will be a heated top-of-the-table affair with Sundowns heading into the game with a six-point gap at the summit over second-placed Buccaneers, who have accumulated 33 points with a game in hand.