A Kaizer Chiefs legend has come to the defence of head coach Miguel Cardoso over deciding against fielding Themba Zwane during a 2-1 CAF Champions League defeat to Pyramids FC.
Sundowns had to settle for silver medals as they suffered a 3-1 aggregate loss to Pyramids at 30 June Stadium in Cairo on Sunday.
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The result on the night was 2-1 thanks to goals from Fiston Mayele and Ahmed Samy. The Tshwane giants pulled one back through Iqraam Rayners but could find the equaliser that would have seen them clinch the coveted title on the away goals rule.
In the aftermath, Cardoso has come under fire from sections of supporters who have questioned the decision not to field Zwane, who was part of the squad that won the 2016 Champions League trophy.
"I think it is inappropriate for us to point fingers," Doctor Khumalo said on SABC Sport.
"I think the substitutes that came on made a lot of difference, irrespective of [Arthur] Sales - Yes, I understand the guys wanted 'uMshishi' (Themba Zwane), but in this game, Themba hasn’t played for quite some time.
"Look at the number stats, look at the number of chances they created; they tried their level best, but it was not meant to be. But I’m very proud of Sundowns players, the bench, and all those players who travelled with the team.
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"Sundowns actually represented South African football very well," Khumalo went on.
Zwane has recently returned from a lengthy injury that kept him out of competitive action for just over five months. He is yet to start a match since his return to action at the end of April.
Meanwhile, the final in Egypt also saw the debut of striker Lebo Mothiba.
