Orlando Pirates face Masilela call ahead of Soweto Derby

Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou must decide whether to select Simphiwe Masilela for Tuesday’s Carling Knockout Round of 16 match against Milford FC, knowing a booking would rule the midfielder out of the Soweto Derby.

Masilela has already collected three yellow cards this season. If he is cautioned at the Orlando Amstel Arena, the 22-year-old will receive an automatic one-match suspension and miss Saturday’s meeting with Kaizer Chiefs.

The derby is an important fixture for both clubs, with Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs seeking points that could improve their respective positions in the Betway Premiership standings.

Masilela has become a key figure

Ouaddou therefore faces a difficult choice over whether to use a player who has made significant progress in the number 10 role or preserve him for the league clash.

Masilela has established himself as an important member of an Orlando Pirates squad that underwent major changes during an aggressive transfer window. The club brought in 10 new players, including Mthetheleli Mthiyane, Sbangani Zulu, Neo Rapoo, Bohlale Ngwato and Gamphani Lungu.

Those arrivals helped fill the places left by Sipho Mbule, Bandile Shandu, Tshegofatso Mabasa, Karim Kimvuidi and Gilberto. Despite the adjustments still taking place within the squad, the former DStv Diski Challenge player has become a prominent part of Ouaddou’s tactical plans.

His contribution has also been reflected in the team’s attacking numbers. Across all competitions this season, including the league, MTN8 and the CAF Champions League preliminary rounds, Masilela has scored one goal and provided three assists.

Pirates have alternatives

Should Ouaddou decide not to select Masilela, Andre De Jong could be used in the secondary striker position.

Kabelo Dlamini is another possibility, although he lacks match sharpness, while Oswin Appollis is also available after previously featuring in the number 10 role.

The match against Milford FC is scheduled to begin at 19:00 tonight. Orlando Pirates start the fixture as the defending Carling Knockout champions and will aim to progress to the quarter-finals without compromising their preparations for Saturday’s Soweto Derby.