Pirates provide injury update before MTN8 final against Sundowns

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou says several injured players are making progress, but he has stopped short of confirming whether any will return for the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns.

Mohau Nkota, who is on loan, has been unavailable alongside key players Evidence Makgopa and Thalente Mbatha. Sihle Nduli, Makhehleni Makhaula, Kabelo Dlamini and Andre de Jong have also spent an extended period on the sidelines.

Ouaddou was asked about the group during a media session at Rand Stadium on Monday, but declined to reveal which players could be involved when Pirates face Sundowns.

“Look, what I can tell you is that they are in good shape, they are coming back,” he said.

“We are doing everything, and the medical department and performance department are doing everything for them to be available for the next games.

“For now, I cannot tell you more about these players. It’s very good news for us to see them on the field and to train with us.

“I cannot go [into the details] for the next game. Maybe you will see it in the next couple of games.”

The coach’s comments suggest Pirates are moving closer to having some of their absent players available, although the club has not confirmed whether Nkota, Makgopa, Mbatha, Makhaula, Dlamini or de Jong will feature in the final.

Nduli faces further rehabilitation

Ouaddou also offered an update on Nduli, who trained with the full squad on Monday. While his return to the pitch represents progress, the midfielder is still expected to spend a number of weeks working with the medical and performance departments.

“Sihle Nduli, first of all, we are happy to see him back on the pitch,” Ouaddou said.

“He’s in the process of rehabilitation and soon, I think, you will be able to see him.

“But he still needs a couple of weeks with the performance department and medical department, but the good news is, step by step, he’s coming back on the field.”

Pirates will meet Sundowns at 18:00 at Moses Mabhida Stadium, with the Soweto club attempting to win the MTN8 for a record fifth consecutive time.