Orlando Pirates latest news: Makgopa, Sibisi, Matuludi, Appollis
· The South African
Orlando Pirates have made a strong start to the new season, winning their opening two matches across all competitions.
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The Buccaneers began their campaign with a narrow 1-0 victory over Milford before being pushed all the way by Durban City in the MTN8 quarter-finals this past weekend.
Abdeslam Ouaddou’s side eventually secured a 2-1 victory after extra-time to book their place in the semi-finals.
With momentum on their side, Pirates now turn their attention back to the Betway Premiership when they face AmaZulu in midweek.
Orlando Pirates have a few injury concerns
Ouaddou will have to contend with injury concerns within his squad. Striker Evidence Makgopa is set for a spell on the sidelines after suffering an ankle injury in training. The forward could be out for up to six weeks.
There is also uncertainty surrounding defender Thabiso Sesane after the centre-back was substituted during Pirates’ 2-1 win over Durban City.
Ouaddou confirmed after the match that the player had an injury concern, although the full extent of the problem is not yet known.
Meanwhile, Orlando Pirates have been busy in the transfer market and have already completed nine signings ahead of the new season.
One player who has been linked with a move to Mayfair is Polokwane City right-back Thabang Matuludi. The interest would make sense given the departures of two right-backs from the Pirates squad, leaving the club potentially looking to strengthen that position.
For now, however, Matuludi remains a Polokwane City player but there’s no doubt that the Buccaneers are looking at a last-minute deal.
With the transfer window set to close next month, Orlando Pirates still have time to make further additions to Ouaddou’s squad as they look to compete on multiple fronts this season.
On Wednesday, the Buccaneers play AmaZulu away, looking to get their third win in a row. Oswin Appollis, who hasn’t set the season alight, will look to regain his form.