Orlando Pirates have several injured players this season after playing eight matches.
Most Premier Soccer League (PSL) teams have only played two matches so far this season, but the Buccaneers are heading into their 10th game this coming weekend. They have reached the MTN8 final for the third successive time, and Jose Riveiro’s team has a chance to win their fifth successive final.
Last season, Orlando Pirates won the MTN8 and Nedbank Cup, making it a successful campaign. With the Buccaneers reaching the CAF Champions League group stages, they have reason to believe they can add a second star.
Pirates to miss several key players in the coming weeks
The Soweto giants now have to compete in five different competitions this season, which could mean playing more than 50 matches in the next nine months. Riveiro will need to rotate his squad as much as possible to avoid injuries, especially to key players.
Here is a list of some of the injured Orlando Pirates players.
Thapelo Xoki
The Pirates vice-captain suffered a knee injury towards the end of last season. He missed the Nedbank Cup which his team won.
Zakhele Lepasa
The Bafana Bafana striker sustained an ankle injury and has been on the sideline since.
Goodman Mosele
The 24-year-old rejoined the club already carrying a knee injury that he picked up at Chippa United in May.
Other Orlando Pirates players who are on the injury list include Miguel Timm, Biotumelo Radiopane and Thabiso Lebitso. If the Buccaneers can remain injury-free until December, then Riveiro will have a full squad to compete for both the league and Champions League.
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