Orlando Pirates have received a welcome boost ahead of their crucial CAF Champions League clash, with Kabelo Dlamini, Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa all returning to training.
The Buccaneers are preparing for a decisive second-leg encounter against Mauritian side La Cure Waves on Saturday, with a place in the next round of the CAF Champions League at stake.
Pirates were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw in the first leg in Mauritius, leaving the tie finely balanced heading into the return fixture at the Orlando Amstel Arena.
Now, head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has been handed a potential selection boost after Dlamini, Mbatha and Makgopa were all spotted participating in Friday’s training session.
Pirates welcome key players back
Dlamini has yet to feature for the Buccaneers this season, making his return to full training particularly encouraging for the Soweto giants.
Mbatha has already featured earlier in the campaign but was sidelined by injury. His return could give Ouaddou another midfield option for a match in which Pirates need to find a way through a stubborn La Cure Waves defence.
Makgopa is also yet to make his appearance this season. The striker’s return adds further competition to the attacking department, with Yanela Mbuthuma and Boitumelo Radiopane having already shown promising form.
However, taking part in training does not automatically guarantee that any of the three players will start — or even feature — on Saturday.
Everything on the line for the Buccaneers
The 0-0 first-leg result means Pirates know exactly what is required in the return fixture.
A victory would send Orlando Pirates through to the second preliminary round, while another scoreless draw would take the tie to penalties. A scoring draw or defeat would see the Buccaneers eliminated.
With home advantage and potentially three returning players, Pirates will be hoping to produce a much-improved performance and avoid an early Champions League exit.
The pressure is firmly on Ouaddou’s side, but the return of Dlamini, Mbatha and Makgopa could provide a timely lift.
Can Orlando Pirates get the job done at home and book their place in the next round?
