Orlando Pirates winger Gamphani Lungu a doubt for Carling Knockout semi-final

Orlando Pirates could be without Gamphani Lungu for their Carling Knockout semi-final against Stellenbosch FC after the winger was ruled out of Zambia’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers with an ankle injury.

The two sides are due to meet after the FIFA international break on the weekend of 21-22 November, although the Premier Soccer League (PSL) has not yet confirmed the precise date.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) says Lungu could be sidelined for between 14 and 21 days. He has consequently been withdrawn from the Chipolopolo squad for their back-to-back qualifiers against Burundi on 13 and 17 November.

Injury rules Lungu out of Zambia squad

Zambia team doctor George Magwende provided an update on the 28-year-old’s condition ahead of the two international fixtures.

“We also have Gamphani Lungu, who has a right ankle sprain that could take about 14-21 days,” Magwende said, according to FAZ, while giving a medical report from the Chipolopolo camp.

The timescale means Lungu’s involvement in the Carling Knockout semi-final is now uncertain. If his recovery takes the full three weeks indicated by the Zambia medical team, he would be unavailable for the match.

Lungu completed the entire game for Orlando Pirates in their 1-0 quarter-final victory against Sekhukhune United on Saturday. The injury update followed that appearance.

Impressive start at Orlando Pirates

Lungu has made a strong start since joining Orlando Pirates from Siwelele FC in June. He has featured 12 times for the Buccaneers and scored four goals.

The Zambia international can operate at right-back or play further forward, giving Orlando Pirates an additional option in different positions. His possible absence would leave the club waiting on his recovery before knowing whether he can take part in the meeting with Stellenbosch FC.

The semi-final will be played after the international window, but the fixture date remains pending confirmation from the PSL.