As the excitement for the MTN8 final heats up, all eyes are on the Orlando Pirates and their preparations for the big match against Stellenbosch FC this Saturday.
With the stakes high, updates on player conditions are crucial for both the team and their fans.
Injury Updates on Key Players
Mandla Ncikazi, the assistant coach of the Orlando Pirates, recently shared the latest news regarding two important players: Monnapule Saleng and Olisa Ndah.
Unfortunately, both players were unable to feature in last week’s match against Richards Bay FC due to injuries they picked up during their previous game against Polokwane City FC.
In their absence, Gilberto filled in for Saleng, while team captain Innocent Maela stepped up to cover Ndah’s position.
Coach Riveiro had earlier expressed uncertainty about Saleng and Ndah’s availability for the final.
In a pre-match press conference held in Durban on Thursday, Ncikazi revealed that neither player has participated in training for several days and is currently undergoing late fitness evaluations in the medical room.
Late Fitness Assessments
“Unfortunately, I don’t have a complete report on their condition,” Ncikazi mentioned.
“They haven’t trained for a few days, but they are still in the medical room for a late fitness test.
At this point, I’m unsure of their status because I left during training this morning and didn’t see how they were doing.
I don’t have a full medical report right now, but I’m hopeful that we’ll have everyone ready to face such a tough opponent.”
Ncikazi remains optimistic about the team’s depth and believes they can perform well even if Saleng and Ndah are unable to play.
Confidence in Squad Depth
“If they can’t make it, I still believe we have a capable team to secure a win in their absence,” he stated.
“Our squad has plenty of talent to manage the situation effectively.”
Fans are eagerly counting down to the match, set to take place at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban, with a full house expected.
The game is scheduled to kick off at 6:00 PM, and everyone is ready to see how the Pirates will rise to the challenge!
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