Mamelodi Sundowns moved into third place in the Premiership after securing a 2-0 victory over Marumo Gallants at Loftus Versfeld on Wednesday, but the result was overshadowed by a serious injury to defender Khuliso Mudau.
Mudau was forced off the field on a stretcher late in the first half after suffering an Achilles tendon injury.
Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso described the injury as serious and a major setback for both the club and the South African national team.
“It is a serious injury and a big loss not only to us, but also South Africa,” Cardoso said.
Mudau was part of the South African side that made history at the 2026 World Cup by reaching the knockout stages for the first time.
The injury comes ahead of South Africa's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, which begins in September. Bafana Bafana are scheduled to host Guinea before travelling to face Eritrea.
Sundowns took the lead in the 21st minute after a cross fell to defender Malibongwe Khoza, who made no mistake from close range.
The hosts continued to dominate possession and chances, but Marumo managed to prevent further damage until the 67th minute.
Cassius Mailula then doubled Sundowns' advantage with a powerful rising shot that sailed over Marumo's Cameroonian goalkeeper Merlin Lako.
The victory lifted Sundowns from seventh to third on the Premiership table with seven points from three matches. They are level on points with leaders Orlando Pirates and second-placed Kaizer Chiefs but trail on goal difference.
Marumo Gallants, who narrowly avoided relegation last season, dropped two places to the bottom of the standings.