Nduli’s return in training boosts Orlando Pirates before MTN8 final

Orlando Pirates midfielder Sihle Nduli has returned to on-field training ahead of Saturday’s MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns, providing an encouraging boost for head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

The 30-year-old suffered a grade-three ankle ligament tear after a heavy tackle in the match against AmaZulu in August. The injury came shortly after Nduli had completed a lengthy spell on the sidelines, making it another setback for the experienced midfielder.

Nduli was initially expected to be out for about four months. However, he has resumed light training after just over a month and was seen running at Orlando Pirates’ open session at Rand Stadium on Monday as he continued his rehabilitation with the club’s medical and performance departments.

Ouaddou welcomed the midfielder’s progress but stressed that Nduli is not yet ready to return to competitive football.

“Sihle Nduli, first of all, we are happy to see him back on the pitch. He is in the process of rehabilitation, and soon I think you will be able to see him,” Ouaddou told the media during Orlando Pirates’ MTN8 Media Day.

“But he still needs a couple of weeks with the performance department and medical department. But the good news is, step by step, he’s coming back on the field.”

Several other Orlando Pirates players were also involved in training as they continued their own recoveries. Mohau Nkota, Evidence Makgopa, Thalente Mbatha and Andre de Jong were among those seen at Rand Stadium, offering further encouragement to the club before the final.

The session took place as Orlando Pirates prepare to face Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday. Ouaddou said the players were progressing well but did not confirm whether any would be available for the showpiece match.

“Look, what I can tell you is that they are in good shape, they are coming back. We are doing everything, the medical department, the performance department, are doing everything for them to be available for the next games.”

The Moroccan-French coach said it was too early to provide more detail about their chances of playing against Sundowns.

“For now, I cannot tell you more about these players. It’s very good news for us to see them on the field and to train with us. I cannot go further for the next game. Maybe you will see it in the next couple of games,” he said.