Sundowns Suffer Major Injury Blow Ahead of AS FAR Final with Coetzee Ruled Out

South African side Mamelodi Sundowns have suffered a significant setback following an injury to their defender, Keanu Coetzee, during their match against Kaizer Chiefs. This comes just before their highly anticipated clash with AS FAR in the CAF Champions League final.

The 28-year-old defender started the aforementioned match but was forced off in the 12th minute. Coetzee sustained the injury when attempting to head the ball, colliding with the boot of Chiefs midfielder Sibongiseni Ndlovu, and collapsing as a result.

Coetzee received on-field treatment for several minutes before being stretchered off. Defender Grant Kekana came on to replace him.

Initial medical examinations have indicated that the player is suffering from a potential collarbone fracture. This injury could sideline him for a period ranging from 6 to 12 weeks, effectively bringing his season to a premature end.

This injury comes at a critical time for Sundowns, who are fiercely competing to retain their South African league title, in addition to reaching the CAF Champions League final where they will face AS FAR.

Coetzee is considered one of the foundational pillars in Mamelodi Sundowns' backline, having featured in 30 matches this season. He had established himself in the starting lineup for the last four league encounters before the injury brought an early end to his campaign.

It is worth noting that Sundowns are set to host AS FAR on May 17 for the first leg of the CAF Champions League final, with the return leg scheduled for May 24 in Rabat.