Orlando Pirates face wait on Ghamphani Lungu ahead of Stellenbosch semi-final

Orlando Pirates could be without Ghamphani Lungu for their Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Stellenbosch FC after the versatile attacker suffered an ankle injury on international duty.

Lungu has been withdrawn from the Zambia squad and will miss both of the country’s back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Burundi.

The 1-0 victory over Sekhukhune United in the Carling Knockout Cup quarter-finals last weekend was Lungu’s most recent appearance. He played the full 90 minutes in that match, but his latest injury has raised doubts over whether he will recover in time for the semi-final.

The Football Association of Zambia confirmed that the Orlando Pirates player would not be available for the two international fixtures.

Zambia team doctor George Magwende said the injury could keep Lungu out for between 14 and 21 days.

“We also have Ghamphani Lungu who has a right ankle sprain which could take about 14-21 days,” Magwende said, as quoted by ZAF.

Pirates are due to face Stellenbosch after the FIFA international break, with the match expected to take place over the weekend of November 21-22.

The PSL has not yet confirmed the exact date or kick-off time. Given the recovery period outlined by Magwende, Lungu’s participation remains uncertain.

The player has made an encouraging start to his time at Pirates under manager Abdeslam Ouaddou and was named the club’s Player of the Month for August.

His ability to operate as both an attacker and a right-back has made him a useful option for the Buccaneers, who are now waiting to see whether he can return in time for their cup semi-final.