Orlando Pirates have been dealt another injury blow after key midfielder Sihle Nduli was forced off the field during their DStv Premiership match against Golden Arrows on Wednesday evening. The injury creates uncertainty regarding his availability for the upcoming Carling Knockout Cup match.
The Incident and Potential Impact
The 30-year-old midfielder was injured just before half-time following a collision with Arrows player Junior Dion. Nduli had to be stretchered off and was replaced by Thalente Mbatha with four minutes remaining in the first half.
- Impact: Nduli, who only joined the Buccaneers this season, has quickly become a pivotal player under coach Adeslam Ouaddou.
- The Next Match: Although the full extent of the injury is unknown, the midfielder is considered likely to miss the team’s next fixture against Richards Bay in the Carling Knockout Cup.
Pirates’ Midfield Depth
Despite the setback, the “Sea Robbers” have options in their defensive midfield department that can step up in Nduli’s absence.
- Potential Replacements: The squad includes capable players like Masindi Nemtajela and Makhehlene Makhaula.
- Makhaula’s Role: The 35-year-old Makhaula, in particular, is expected to offer stability to the midfield, with his valuable leadership, ball-winning ability, and composure under pressure. However, it remains to be seen how big a role coach Ouaddou will assign him, especially considering a previous injury in May.
Match Result
In the match where Nduli was injured, Orlando Pirates secured a crucial victory. Pirates opened the scoring through Nkosikhona Ndaba. Although Arrows managed to equalise in the second half, the Buccaneers quickly regained the lead, and substitute Yanela Mbuthuma scored a third goal, sealing the MTN8 champions’ seventh league win.
The immediate concern for the club now shifts to how well the team can cope without Nduli as they look to continue their form in the Carling Knockout Cup.
