Orlando Pirates face five-player blow as Durban City clash looms

Orlando Pirates could be without as many as five key players when they host Durban City at the Orlando Amstel Arena on Thursday evening.

The Buccaneers return to Betway Premiership action after a two-week spell focused on the CAF Champions League, where they progressed to the second preliminary round.

Pirates have made a strong start to their league campaign and will be eager to maintain their momentum against Durban City. The defending champions currently sit second on the table with 13 points from five matches.

They trail early leaders Mamelodi Sundowns, who have amassed 20 points from eight games, leaving Pirates with an opportunity to reduce the deficit with victory on Thursday.

Four ruled out, two face late tests

Pirates will, however, head into the fixture with several concerns over the fitness of key members of their squad.

Thalente Mbatha, Evidence Makgopa, Sihle Nduli and Mohau Nkota remain unavailable for selection as they continue their respective recoveries from injury.

Gamphani Lungu and Andre de Jong, meanwhile, face a race against time to be fit for the encounter. The pair will undergo late fitness tests before a final decision is made on their availability.

Lungu’s potential return would provide a particularly significant boost for the Buccaneers, given his impact since joining the club.

The Zambian has emerged as one of Pirates’ standout performers this season, scoring four goals already. His impressive form also earned him a call-up to the Zambia national team.

Pirates have recent edge over Durban City

Despite the growing injury concerns, Pirates have sufficient depth to deal with Durban City’s challenge as they seek to close the gap on Sundowns.

The two sides most recently met in the MTN8 quarter-final in August, when the Buccaneers secured a 2-1 victory.

Durban City had previously frustrated Pirates in the league, holding them to a goalless draw in May.

Pirates will therefore be looking to build on their cup victory and extend their unbeaten run against their Durban opponents.

With the league leaders already opening up a sizeable gap, the champions cannot afford another slip if they are to remain firmly in contention for a successful title defence.