Orlando Pirates face selection boost before MTN8 final against Sundowns

Orlando Pirates could welcome back several injured and returning players for Saturday’s MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns at Moses Mabhida Stadium, giving coach Abdeslam Ouaddou a wider selection of options than he has had for much of the season.

The final in Durban begins at 18:00, with Pirates aiming to retain the MTN8 trophy and Sundowns seeking another addition to their collection.

Ouaddou has largely trusted a youthful squad during Pirates’ impressive run of form, but the return of a number of players to full fitness could force him to reconsider his team for the showpiece match.

Makgopa and Mbatha in contention

Evidence Makgopa is available for selection after missing the whole of the current season so far. Thalente Mbatha is also in contention, having played only twice this campaign before an injury interrupted his progress.

Mbatha appeared against Milford FC in the opening league fixture and then featured against Durban City in the MTN8 quarter-final. His return would give Ouaddou another midfield option for the meeting with Sundowns.

Mohau Nkota has made progress since returning to Pirates last month from his loan spell at Saudi Pro League club Al-Ettifaq. Gamphani Lungu is likewise back in contention after an injury halted his progress before the FIFA break.

The Buccaneers also have additional experience available in Makhehleni Makhaula. He is fully fit but has yet to make his first appearance of the season.

Andre de Jong has resumed training following his own injury setback, while Masindi Nemtajela is available again after returning in Pirates’ final match before the FIFA break. Nemtajela came on for the last seven minutes of the game against Marumo Gallants.

Kabelo Dlamini, Tapelo Xoki and Sifiso Luthuli have also returned to training and are competing for opportunities. Their availability provides Ouaddou with greater depth ahead of the final.

Sundowns face uncertainty over Pirates line-up

The changing picture could complicate Sundowns’ preparations. The Brazilians will be familiar with the players who have helped Pirates produce their recent results, but they must also assess whether Ouaddou will continue with the predominantly young side that performed before the international break.

The coach could instead bring some of the returning experienced players into the team, with Makhaula, Mbatha and Makgopa among those potentially entering the selection debate.

That gives Pirates more alternatives than they possessed during the early part of the season and could make their line-up less predictable for the African champions.

Sundowns know what to expect if Pirates maintain the formula that has served them well in recent weeks. A team strengthened by returning players would offer a different challenge, however.

With the MTN8 trophy at stake, Ouaddou may have the opportunity to surprise his opponents when the sides meet in Durban.