As the Orlando Pirates gear up to face Magesi F.C. in the Telkom Knockout Cup, they are faced with a challenging situation: nine of their players will be sidelined due to injuries.
This news casts a shadow over what has otherwise been a stellar start to the season for the Buccaneers.
A Strong Start
Despite the injury concerns, the Pirates have been on a winning streak.
They kicked off the season by clinching the MTN8 Cup and followed it up with victories in their first three league games.
Currently, they sit in second place on the league table, having netted six goals so far.
Players like Relebohile Mofokeng and Monnapule Saleng have been pivotal, consistently causing trouble for opposing defenses.
Key Players Out
Unfortunately, the team has received confirmation that Olisa Ndah, a key player, will be out for the remainder of the year.
A representative from the Pirates explained, “The Bucs medical department has confirmed that the 26-year-old has suffered a tibia fracture.
Given the nature and location of the injury, the decision regarding surgery isn’t straightforward.
Based on the type of injury, Ndah has been ruled out for the rest of the year.”
Updates on Other Injured Players
Alongside Ndah, eight other players are dealing with various injury concerns:
Thalente Mbatha
Thalente is still recovering from an injury sustained during the Pirates’ 3-1 victory over Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8.
The medical team is closely monitoring his progress this week to determine when he can return to full training.
Bandile Shandu
Good news for Bandile! He has started full training with the team and is gradually participating in friendly matches, playing 35 minutes to start.
His training load will increase weekly until he can comfortably play a full 90 minutes.
Tapelo Xoki
Tapelo has been cleared to resume full training, focusing on agility drills before participating in friendly matches.
Goodman Mosele
Goodman is in the intermediate phase of his rehabilitation.
He has begun jogging, and the team is gradually introducing him to heavy weight training.
Zakhele Lepasa
Zakhele is in a similar situation to Goodman, currently undergoing intermediate rehabilitation.
He has started running on the field and strength training.
Thabiso Lebitso
Thabiso has started running as part of his recovery plan.
He is set to begin plyometric training next week while continuing with external biokinetic training to enhance the strength of his hamstring and quadriceps.
Sandile Mthethwa
Sandile recently sustained an abdominal muscle strain during training.
He is currently undergoing rehabilitation sessions with a specialist therapist focusing on this type of injury.
Ethan Visagie
Ethan has dealt with a right ankle sprain acquired during training.
After an orthopedic consultation, conservative treatment has been recommended as the best strategy for his recovery.
What Lies Ahead?
With such a significant number of players unavailable, the Pirates will need to strategize carefully for their upcoming match against Magesi F.C.
The next few games will test the team’s depth and resilience as they look to maintain their strong start to the season.
Mine Crypto. Earn $GOATS while it is free! Click Here!!