Orlando Pirates confirm eight absentees for CAF Champions League return leg

Orlando Pirates will be without eight players for their CAF Champions League first preliminary round second leg against La Cure Waves.

The Buccaneers drew the opening match 0-0 and will host the semi-professional side in the return fixture.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou acknowledged that he had used some fringe players in the first leg, but has selected a strong side for the second meeting.

Pirates confirmed that five players remain unavailable while recovering from injury.

“Andre De Jong, Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa, Gampani Lungu and Sihle Nduli remain sidelined as they recover from their respective injuries,” the club said.

Tshepang Moremi is also unavailable because of suspension. The midfielder is set to serve the second and final match of his ban in the fixture against La Cure Waves.

“Tshepang Moremi will serve his second and final match of his suspension. He will be available for selection in the next round, should the Buccaneers progress,” Pirates added.

The club will also be unable to call on three players who were not registered for the opening stages of the CAF Champions League.

That group includes Sifiso Luthuli, Mpho Padime and new Norwegian striker Sebastian Pedersen.

“The trio of Sifiso Luthuli, Mpho Padime and Sebastian Pedersen are also unavailable, due to not being registered. They will be registered when the next registration window opens,” the club stated.

Pirates therefore face La Cure Waves without eight squad members as they attempt to secure progress to the next round after the goalless first-leg draw.