Orlando Pirates Head Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has delivered a crucial injury bulletin just hours ahead of their highly anticipated Carling Knockout semi-final clash this afternoon.
Injury Report Highlights
The update focuses on three key players: Sihle Nduli, Olisa Ndah, and Makhehleni Makhaula, as the Buccaneers prepare to travel to the Moses Mabhida Stadium to face Richards Bay in a winner-takes-all cup showdown. Pirates are looking to maintain momentum after a strong 3-1 midweek league win against Golden Arrows, while Richards Bay seeks to snap a two-match drawing streak.
- Sihle Nduli (OUT): The hard-running midfielder is confirmed to be unavailable for the crucial cup match. Nduli picked up an injury during the recent victory over Golden Arrows. Ouaddou indicated the club is currently awaiting a full diagnosis.“He is in Johannesburg with our medical department. I’d be lying to you if I said I have all the information. Now, he is under assessment,” Ouaddou stated, confirming the injury is being evaluated.
- Olisa Ndah & Makhehleni Makhaula (Returning): There is positive news regarding the experienced defensive duo. Both Ndah and Makhaula have returned to full training after spells on the sidelines.
- Cautious Approach: However, Coach Ouaddou made it clear that neither player will be rushed back into action immediately. He plans to gradually introduce them back into the playing squad to ensure their long-term fitness and prevent further setbacks, protecting them from being thrown “straight into the deep-end.”
In summary, Pirates must navigate their critical cup semi-final without Nduli, but the imminent return of Ndah and Makhaula offers a major boost to squad depth in the weeks to come.
Would you like to see the full predicted Orlando Pirates lineup for the semi-final clash against Richards Bay, considering these injury updates?
