Orlando Pirates lose Sihle Nduli and Thalente Mbatha for MTN8 semi-final

Orlando Pirates will be without Sihle Nduli and Thalente Mbatha for tomorrow’s MTN8 semi-final first-leg meeting with Sekhukhune United, with Nduli facing an extended spell on the sidelines after suffering a serious ankle injury.

Nduli has been diagnosed with a Grade 3 ligament tear in his ankle and is expected to be unavailable for approximately four months. His injury represents a significant absence for Pirates as they prepare for the opening match of their semi-final tie.

Mbatha will also miss the fixture, although his absence is linked to a recurring knee problem carried over from the previous campaign. Orlando Pirates confirmed the pair’s unavailability ahead of the match against Sekhukhune United.

The club did, however, provide a more positive update on Tshepang Moremi, who is making steady progress in his recovery. Moremi was left out of Pirates’ 3-0 win over Chippa United, but could return to action soon.

“Pirates will have to face Sekhukhune without the likes of Sihle Nduli and Thalente Mbatha, while Tshepang Moremi could soon return after sitting out the win over Chippa,” the club statement read.

The update means Pirates must prepare for the MTN8 semi-final first leg without Nduli and Mbatha, while Moremi’s recovery offers the prospect of another option becoming available in the near future.

Nduli’s lay-off is expected to last considerably longer than Mbatha’s current absence. The Grade 3 classification of his ankle ligament tear has ruled him out for around four months, while Mbatha continues to deal with a knee injury that has remained an issue since the previous campaign.

Moremi’s condition is being monitored after he missed the victory over Chippa United. The club has not confirmed that he will feature against Sekhukhune United, but has indicated that he is progressing towards a return.

Pirates’ latest injury announcement therefore contains both setbacks and encouragement before the semi-final. The club will be without two players for the first leg, while Moremi could be approaching a return after sitting out the previous match.

The MTN8 semi-final first leg against Sekhukhune United takes place tomorrow, with Pirates having confirmed the availability concerns surrounding Nduli, Mbatha and Moremi before the tie.