Orlando Pirates could receive a major boost ahead of Saturday’s MTN8 final, with Mohau Nkota back in first-team training and potentially in contention to face Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Buccaneers take on the Brazilians at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban this weekend, with both sides entering the final in strong form.
For Pirates, Nkota’s return could provide an exciting attacking option at exactly the right time.
Nkota back in the picture
The 21-year-old winger has yet to feature for Pirates this season after returning to the club on a season-long loan from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq on 4 September.
Nkota’s absence has been linked to an injury he sustained during the previous campaign, but his return to training this week has raised hopes that he could finally make his comeback.
Whether he is ready for competitive action remains to be seen, but his presence in training is an encouraging development for the Buccaneers ahead of their biggest match of the season so far.
Why Nkota could be important
Nkota came through the Pirates academy before being promoted to the senior team in 2024.
He spent just one season with the first team before moving to Saudi Arabia, gaining valuable experience in the process.
Former Pirates and Sundowns winger Lebohang Mokoena believes that experience could make Nkota an important addition to the current Buccaneers squad.
Mokoena has suggested that the youngster could return with an added hunger to help Pirates challenge for major silverware, particularly after leaving the club without winning the league title.
Pirates need options on the left
One of Nkota’s biggest advantages could be his ability to operate on the left flank.
Mokoena believes Pirates have limited depth in that position, making the youngster’s return potentially significant as the season progresses.
With the MTN8 final offering Pirates a chance to retain their crown, Nkota could provide additional pace, directness and competition for places in the attacking department.
However, after spending months recovering from injury, throwing him straight into a high-pressure final would carry its own risks.
Should Nkota face Sundowns?
The decision will ultimately depend on his fitness and how well he has progressed since returning to training.
Pirates will not want to rush their young winger back, but having him available — even from the bench — could give coach an extra attacking weapon against a Sundowns side that will be determined to claim the trophy.
For Nkota, meanwhile, the MTN8 final could represent the perfect stage to begin the next chapter of his Pirates career.
Should Orlando Pirates unleash Mohau Nkota against Sundowns, or should the Buccaneers wait until he is fully match-fit?
