Orlando Pirates Brace for Injury Crisis as Soweto Derby Looms
With the highly anticipated Soweto Derby fast approaching, Orlando Pirates are grappling with an injury crisis in their defensive lineup, which may force head coach José Riveiro to hand an untested young star a significant role in the Nedbank Cup this weekend.
Defensive Woes for the Buccaneers
The Buccaneers’ season has been plagued by injuries in defense, particularly at right-back. Regulars Thabiso Monyane, Thabiso Lebitso, and Bandile Shandu have spent considerable time sidelined, leaving gaps in the squad. Despite Deano Van Rooyen’s midseason arrival easing some of the pressure, Lebitso’s recent re-injury during the CAF Champions League clash against Al Ahly has worsened the situation.
With Shandu out long-term, and both Van Rooyen and Monyane potentially unavailable for Sunday’s Nedbank Cup Last 32 game against Richards Bay FC, 19-year-old Siyabonga Ndlozi may be thrust into the spotlight once again. Ndlozi made his debut against Al Ahly last weekend, stepping into a challenging environment with 34 minutes left to play.
Riveiro’s Calculated Risk
Speaking ahead of the Richards Bay match, Riveiro expressed confidence in Ndlozi’s readiness to step up, dismissing any notion that the youngster’s inclusion would be a gamble.
“He’s ready. I’m playing players who are good enough and ready to play, so what is the risk?” Riveiro stated during the Nedbank Cup pre-match press conference.
“If it’s not working one day, it doesn’t mean he’s not good enough or ready. It’s just that he couldn’t manage on the day.”
Riveiro emphasized the importance of trust in his squad, adding that any player selected in the matchday 20 is there on merit and preparation, not desperation.
A Balancing Act Before the Derby
The timing of the injuries couldn’t be worse for Pirates, with the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs scheduled just a week after the Richards Bay game. While the immediate priority is progressing in the Nedbank Cup, Riveiro must also consider the risks of aggravating injuries before the high-stakes Derby.
With Pirates sitting in a precarious position, juggling cup competitions and league ambitions, the coach may have no choice but to rely on emerging talent like Ndlozi to see them through the injury crisis.
What’s Next?
Sunday’s clash against Richards Bay provides a test not only for the Buccaneers’ depth but also for Ndlozi’s composure on a big stage. Should he rise to the occasion, the youngster could cement his place as a valuable option in Pirates’ defensive rotation.
As the clock ticks down to the Derby, fans will be watching closely to see how Pirates navigate this challenging period and whether their young guns can handle the pressure. One thing is certain: the Buccaneers will need all hands on deck to ensure they are ready for the Soweto showdown.
