Orlando Pirates boosted by expected Appollis and Sibisi returns

Orlando Pirates are expected to have Oswin Appollis and Nkosinathi Sibisi available again for Tuesday’s Carling Knockout last-16 tie against Milford FC.

The pair missed the Buccaneers’ previous match against African Stars on Friday night, but both are understood to be in contention for the domestic cup fixture on 27 October.

Pirates secured their place in the next stage of the CAF Champions League by beating the Namibian side. Their focus now turns to the Carling Knockout, with the club continuing to compete on several fronts.

Appollis has not featured since being carried off during Pirates’ 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy in the Betway Premiership.

The winger had resumed training before the African Stars match, as previously reported by the Siya crew, but head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou opted to take a cautious approach with his recovery and did not include him in the squad.

His possible return against Milford would give Ouaddou another attacking option during a demanding period for Pirates. The club will be aiming to maintain the momentum gained from their progress in the CAF Champions League while beginning their Carling Knockout campaign.

Sibisi was also absent for the meeting with African Stars and is among the players expected to return for Tuesday’s contest.

Having both players back in contention would provide Pirates with greater squad depth for the last-16 tie. However, the club’s final team selection is expected to offer a clearer indication of which players are ready to feature against Milford.

The match comes shortly after Pirates’ success against African Stars, as they look to continue their progress in both domestic and continental competition.