Pirates handed boost ahead of win-at-all-costs CAF battle

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Orlando Pirates players during the club’s training session at Orlando Amstel Arena. Photo: Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images

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Pirates handed boost ahead of win-at-all-costs CAF battle

Sep 11, 2026 – 02:21 pm
By Siya Ndlela

Orlando Pirates have welcomed back several key players from the injury list ahead of their second leg in the first preliminary round of the CAF Champions League.

The Sea Robbers are finalising their preparations for the second leg of their CAF Champions League tie against La Cure Wave in the first preliminary round. The Buccaneers will be looking to make home ground advantage count after they were held to a goalless draw in the first leg.

Abdeslam Ouaddou’s ambition will be boosted by the return to action of several key players who have been previously on the sidelines due to injury.

Club captain Nkosinanthi Sibisi was present at the club’s final training session on Friday, as was midfielder Thalente Mbatha. The Bafana Bafana duo have both missed a handful of matches in recent weeks due to injuries.

Last season, Sibisi was an ever-present figure in a Bucs side that lifted the domestic treble, clinching the MTN8, Carling Knockout and Betway Premiership title. Meanwhile, Mbatha proved to be somewhat the side’s lucky charm as the Sea Robbers did not lose a single match in which the KwaMashu-born star played.

Nevertheless, the pair’s path to the starting eleven will not be a straight one. Sibisi will have to outwork new signing Sbangani Zulu, who has impressed at centre-back, while Thalente Mbatha faces competition from Cemran Dansin, Mtheleleli Mthiyane and Simphiwe Masilela, among others.