Themba Zwane shares recovery update as new FIFA CWC trophy lands in SA

The Bafana Bafana midfielder suffered an Achilles tear that required reparative surgery back in October last year, while on national team duty against Congo in Brazzaville.

The initial diagnosis suggested he would only recover in the latter stages of the 2024/25 season and, while the player accepts he is some way off from being available for matches, ‘Mshishi’ has shared how he dealt with the setback.

"It was difficult [to process] at first, but obviously with the support of my team and my family, I had to push myself [through]," said Zwane.

"And I'm happy at the moment, I'm running outside and I don't feel any pain, it's just that [the Achilles] tight at the moment, but overall I think so far so good."

He now has his work cut out in trying to win over coach Miguel Cardoso, who took over the club reins in December, as well as being ready for the Africa Cup of Nations with Bafana later this year. 

"Obviously it is difficult, but it goes with belief – if you believe in yourself. I mean, I've been in these situations – since I came to Sundowns from [Mpumalanga Black] Aces," Zwane added.

"I can tell you I've been fighting for my position because knowing for sure that it's not easy, we've got a lot of quality players, but the difference is your mindset.

"If you believe and you are strong here (pointing to head) then you will do it, and I think I've got those [qualities]."

'Mshishi' addressed journalists during the FIFA Club World Cup trophy tour at Chloorkop as Sundowns prepare to travel to the USA for the newly-expanded tournament in June. 

And the 35-year-old, should his contract be renewed beyond the end of the current season, is eager to make a second appearance at the global competition. 

"It is very special for the whole team, we've been waiting for this moment to come and it's here now, and even today we get to see the trophy and get the opportunity to take pictures with the trophy.

"I mean, it's excitement overall. The level was so high [at the 2016 Club World Cup], it was too high. I mean, as a team, we learnt a lot and I think this time we are ready," he noted.

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