Orlando Pirates face Gamphani Lungu injury concern after striker is stretchered off in 4-0 win

Orlando Pirates could be without in-form forward Gamphani Lungu after he was stretchered off shortly after scoring in their 4-0 victory over Kruger United.

The Zambia international opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the fourth minute, converting after Kamogelo Sebelebele was brought down inside the area.

Lungu was unable to continue soon afterwards after sustaining an injury and was carried from the field on a stretcher. Oswin Appollis replaced him.

The full extent of the problem is not yet known. Pirates’ medical team is expected to provide more information after assessing the attacker, with the length of any potential absence dependent on the severity of the injury.

The setback interrupts an impressive start to Lungu’s career with the Soweto club. The 27-year-old has become an important attacking option for coach Abdeslam Ouaddou and has scored four goals and provided one assist in seven appearances.

His goal against Kruger United was another contribution to a promising period at Pirates, making his sudden departure particularly frustrating for the club and its supporters.

Lungu’s injury could also add to an already growing list of unavailable Pirates players. Nkosinathi Sibisi, Evidence Makgopa, Thalente Mbatha, Sihle Nduli and Andre de Jong are among those who have recently been ruled out through injury.

Ouaddou will be hoping the problem is not serious, with Pirates preparing for a crucial MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns.

The timing is also unfortunate for Lungu’s international ambitions. The forward had appeared to be in contention for a return to the Zambia national team after spending two years out of favour.

Lungu made his senior debut for Zambia at the age of 19 and has since won 15 caps for the Chipolopolo. His recent club form had helped put him firmly back into consideration for the national side.

Pirates and Zambia must now wait for the results of his medical assessment. Both will hope the injury does not lead to a lengthy spell on the sidelines for a player who has quickly emerged as one of the club’s standout signings.

Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix