Orlando Pirates hint at Mohau Nkota return for MTN8 final

Orlando Pirates appear set to have Mohau Nkota available for Saturday’s MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns after the winger was seen with the squad at King Shaka International Airport.

Nkota was among the Pirates contingent welcomed by a large group of Buccaneers supporters on Thursday, providing an indication that he is ready to be considered for the showpiece at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

The winger has yet to make his competitive debut for Pirates since returning to the club. His involvement had been delayed by a knee injury which kept him sidelined for several weeks.

Should head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou decide to select Nkota from the start, the winger is likely to operate in a wide position. His pace could offer Pirates an attacking outlet against the Mamelodi Sundowns defence.

Ouaddou, however, has alternatives if he chooses not to risk Nkota immediately. Mpho Padime and Tshepang Moremi have both resumed full training with the squad and can provide attacking creativity in the final third.

Padime brings experience to the Pirates midfield, while Moremi’s versatility gives the coaching staff another option when selecting the attacking players for the final.

The club’s squad depth has also been improved by the return of Thalente Mbatha and Evidence Makgopa. Both players have recovered from their respective injuries and are back in contention for places in the starting eleven.

Mbatha provides a defensive presence in midfield, while Makgopa offers another option in attack as Pirates prepare for the meeting with Sundowns.

The final is sold out and will be played at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday, 10 October 2026. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00.

The match will determine the MTN8 winner, with Pirates having received a boost in selection options before the decisive fixture.