Orlando Pirates boosted by key players’ return for CAF Champions League decider

Orlando Pirates have received a timely boost before their CAF Champions League first preliminary round second leg against La Cure Wave, with several important players returning from injury.

The Buccaneers are completing preparations for the decisive fixture after being held to a goalless draw in the opening leg. They will now aim to capitalise on home advantage and secure progress in the competition.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou’s options have been strengthened by the involvement of captain Nkosinanthi Sibisi and midfielder Thalente Mbatha in the club’s final training session on Friday. Both Bafana Bafana players had been unavailable for a number of matches in recent weeks because of injuries.

Sibisi was a key figure in the Pirates team that completed a domestic treble last season. The club won the MTN8, Carling Knockout and Betway Premiership titles, with the defender featuring consistently throughout the campaign.

Mbatha also made a significant contribution. Pirates did not lose a single match in which the KwaMashu-born midfielder played, underlining his influence on the side during the previous season.

However, neither player is guaranteed an immediate return to the starting line-up despite being back in training.

Sibisi faces competition from new signing Sbangani Zulu, who has made a strong impression at centre-back. Mbatha, meanwhile, must compete with Cemran Dansin, Mtheleleli Mthiyane and Simphiwe Masilela for a place in midfield.

Pirates will therefore enter the second leg with a deeper squad but with selection decisions still to be made as they seek a result strong enough to take them through to the next stage of the CAF Champions League.