All Clear for Orlando Pirates: No Injuries, No Suspensions for Nedbank Final
Orlando Pirates head into Saturday’s highly-anticipated Nedbank Cup final clash against Kaizer Chiefs with a clean bill of health. There are no suspensions, which is a major boost for coach Jose Riveiro. He prepares his strongest line-up for the derby, hoping for a stellar performance from the players.
The Buccaneers will welcome back influential duo Thalente Mbatha and Nkosinathi Sibisi, both of whom were unavailable for the recent league win over Golden Arrows due to suspension. Mbatha had been serving a one-match ban after collecting four yellow cards. Meanwhile, Sibisi was sidelined for two matches following a red card incident against Sekhukhune United.
Sibisi and Mbatha Expected to Start
Their return comes at a crucial time. Both players have been key contributors this season. Sibisi, a solid presence in the heart of the defense, has racked up 36 appearances. He is likely to slot straight back into the starting eleven. Also, Orlando Pirates expect midfield dynamo Mbatha, who has made 38 appearances and earned a call-up to the national team, to start.
Orlando Pirates Strong Squad Depth Available
Coach Riveiro is further buoyed by the availability of key players who were either rested or used sparingly in the Arrows game. Goalkeeper Sipho Chaine and rising star Relebohile Mofokeng were both rested midweek. Deon Hotto and Evidence Makgopa remained unused on the bench. Mohau Nkota and Tshegofatso Mabasa, who featured as second-half substitutes, will also be pushing for starting roles, reflecting Orlando Pirates’ strong squad depth.
Striker Dilemma for Riveiro
The competition for the central striking position is expected to be fierce, with Makgopa and Mabasa both in the frame to lead the line. Mabasa has found form in recent matches. On the other hand, Makgopa’s physicality and movement offer a different dimension, which Orlando Pirates might find favorable.
Fringe Players Unlikely to Feature
Riveiro opted to give several fringe players some minutes against Arrows. These include Melusi Buthelezi, Yanga Madiba, Karim Kimvuidi, Boitumelo Radiopane, Bandile Shandu, Simphiwe Selepe, and Siyabonga Ndlozi. However, none of these players are expected to feature from the start in the Orlando Pirates cup final.
Focus on Silverware Before Busy Schedule
This final offers Pirates a golden opportunity to add silverware to their season. It allows them to assert dominance over their Soweto rivals. With no injury concerns or suspensions to manage, Orlando Pirates can focus solely on tactics. He needs execution against a Kaizer Chiefs side also desperate for glory.
After the final, Pirates will face a congested schedule to wrap up their campaign. There will be league fixtures against Arrows, TS Galaxy, SuperSport United, AmaZulu, and Magesi FC. All of these are to come later this month.
Also read: Three Kaizer Chiefs Players to Miss the Nedbank Cup Final Showdown
