Orlando Pirates edged closer to a CAF Champions League semi-final berth with a vital 1-0 away win against MC Alger, but the glaring omission of Monnapule Saleng continues to spark intrigue among fans and pundits alike.
Mohau Nkota was the hero for the Soweto giants, netting the decisive goal in the 63rd minute of a game dominated by the hosts at the Stade du 5 Juillet. The Buccaneers had to dig deep, registering only four shots compared to 21 from MC Alger, while enjoying just 31% possession.
It was a textbook smash-and-grab victory that showcased Pirates’ resilience on the continental stage. Yet, the spotlight was as much on who wasn’t playing as it was on who delivered the win.
Saleng still missing — despite signs of return
For nearly four months, Orlando Pirates’ influential winger Monnapule Saleng has been missing from competitive action. The 26-year-old, once considered one of the club’s most dangerous attacking threats, was again absent from the matchday squad — despite being seen back in training and gym sessions in recent club footage.
It marked the first time this year that Saleng has appeared in club-related training media, which had raised hopes of his return. Those hopes were quickly dashed when he failed to make the bench against MC Alger, fuelling speculation over his future.
Reports had emerged weeks earlier suggesting that a failed transfer to Egyptian giants Al Ahly and dissatisfaction over his salary were factors in his prolonged absence. Saleng had allegedly skipped training following the collapsed deal, prompting his exclusion from matchday plans.
Coach Riveiro sidesteps Saleng controversy
Pirates coach Jose Riveiro broke his silence on the Saleng saga in a recent press briefing, but his comments were anything but conclusive.
“I don’t think about players when we win or when we don’t win. It is what it is,” Riveiro said, hinting at deeper off-field issues.
“It’s not my role to speak much about it. I wish the best for both sides. Whatever I say could turn into a headline, right?” the coach added, keeping the door open to various interpretations.
Saleng’s last match and Bafana Bafana showing
Saleng’s last competitive outing for Orlando Pirates came on 7 December in a goalless draw against Al Ahly in a Champions League fixture at Orlando Stadium.
More recently, he featured for Bafana Bafana in an African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier in Bloemfontein, where he was one of the standout performers — a sign that he remains match-fit and in form, despite his club exile.
What next for Saleng and Pirates?
With the second leg against MC Alger looming and the CAF Champions League reaching its business end, Pirates will be hoping to wrap up qualification for the semi-finals. Whether Monnapule Saleng will feature in any part of their campaign remains uncertain — but what’s clear is that the story of his absence is far from over.
Fans will be watching closely — not just for goals, but for answers.
