Orlando Pirates have received a massive timely boost ahead of their high-stakes MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium this Saturday.
With just 90 minutes—or potentially extra time and penalties—separating the Sea Robbers from an unprecedented fifth consecutive Wafa Wafa crown, midfield dynamo Thalente Mbatha is officially back in full training and in contention for the Saturday, 10 October showdown.
The Return of the ‘Engine’
The 26-year-old midfield orchestrator has been sidelined for just shy of two months due to a knee injury. His return provides a major lift for Jose Riveiro’s side, with supporters eager to see how his defensive grit and distribution match up against Sundowns star playmaker Marcelo Allende in the middle of the park.
Adding to the optimism, eagle-eyed supporters spotted experienced schemer Kabelo Dlamini back on the training pitch. Having missed the entirety of the season so far due to injury, the 30-year-old left-footer’s potential availability raises exciting questions about whether he could make a surprise cameo appearance in Durban.
Meanwhile on the International Front
Away from domestic final preparations, former Buccaneers striker Lyle Foster has currently found himself out of the Bafana Bafana picture. Following Burnley’s relegation from the English Premier League last term, the 26-year-old has embarked on a new chapter across the Atlantic, joining MLS side Houston Dynamo on loan.
