Orlando Pirates await Sihle Nduli injury assessment after AmaZulu draw

Orlando Pirates are waiting for further medical examinations to determine the seriousness of Sihle Nduli’s latest injury setback, suffered during Wednesday’s 1-1 draw with AmaZulu at Kings Park.

The midfielder had only just returned to competitive football after being sidelined since last season, making his first official appearance for the Buccaneers since recovering from his previous injury. His comeback was one of the positives for Orlando Pirates, but it was cut short when he was forced off in the second half.

Nduli was replaced by Thapelo Mokobodi, with Pirates choosing not to risk the 30-year-old after he was unable to continue.

Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou said the club would carry out more detailed examinations before providing an update on the extent of the problem.

“Yes, we had to take him out because, unfortunately, he could not continue. We wanted to give him a gift. You know, if you remember, he was injured here in Durban. So, really, it was a good surprise for him to restart here,” Ouaddou told journalists after the match.

Nduli’s latest setback was particularly disappointing because his previous injury was also sustained in Durban, during a match against Golden Arrows. His return to the city had therefore carried added emotional significance as he made his comeback.

However, the midfielder’s involvement against AmaZulu ended prematurely, leaving Pirates concerned that he could face another extended spell on the sidelines.

“And he got injured. We hope it’s not so bad. Now we are going to do some analysis, to go deep into the analysis. Actually, I cannot give you more updates about that. We just have to make some examinations, and we will see.

“I hope that we didn’t lose him again.”

Ouaddou’s comments leave the club waiting for the results of the assessment before deciding how long Nduli may be unavailable. At this stage, Pirates cannot confirm whether the injury is a minor knock or a problem that could again keep him out for a significant period.

The Buccaneers will now hope the damage is limited and that Nduli’s return to the team is not followed by another lengthy absence. His appearance against AmaZulu had marked an important step after missing competitive action since last season, but the latest injury has placed that progress under immediate doubt.