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Pirates Players In Line To Stake Claim Against Sekhukhune

Pirates Players In Line To Stake Claim Against Sekhukhune

Orlando Pirates will switch their focus to the DStv Premiership schedule just three days after their MTN8 semi-final first leg encounter. 

Pirates will travel to Sekhukhune United on Tuesday evening looking to reduce the gap behind Sundowns in second spot on the standings. 

Read: Carling Black Label Cup Fixtures Confirmed!

After a demanding game against the Brazilians that ended without goals, assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi says it's important that team retain the same mentality and the will to win.

"It's a different competition, we played a cup match two days ago but what is important is that the mentality must not change," Ncikazi told the club's media in an interview posted on their official channels.

"Playing to win, fighting to win for the team, which is what we observed in the previous match. Not much preparations from matchday +1 yesterday (Sunday), matchday -1 today (Monday), but what should be kept is the mentality of fighting to win an get the three points," he added.

With only three games in between the two matches, Pirates could be tempted to rotate the squad against Babina Noko.

Soccer Laduma looks at players who did not start against Sundowns and may be given the opportunity against Sekhukhune.

DEFENCE: 

Tapelo Xoki

Pirates have confirmed on their official website that centre-back Olisa Ndah is suspended for the match due to an accumulation of yellow cards after he was cautioned against Masandawana. That could mean Tapelo Xoki is likely to be restored into the line-up after sitting on the bench against the Tshwane side.

Thabiso Monyane

The right wing-back position is tightly contested thanks to the emergence of Monyane. However, in the big game against Sundowns, head coach Jose Riveiro opted to start with Bandile Shandu. Monyane replaced Shandu on 73 minutes against Masandawana and could be one of the fresh legs that could start against Sekhukhune.

Paseka Mako

Pirates have the luxury of resting left-footed centre-back Innocent Maela, with Mako a capable replacement. Mako can also be a posible replacement for Deon Hotto, in the wing-back position after both Maela and Hotto played the entire 90 minutes against Masandawana.

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MIDFIELD: 

Vincent Pule

Competition for places on the right side of midfield just got heated up after Monnapule Saleng had an impressive debut against Sundowns. Given that Saleng has not played too many matches this season, he may not be up for two straight starts, so Pule could be given the nod to stake his claim in the team.

Read: Khanye's Shocking Pirates/Chiefs Prediction…  

ATTACK: 

Kermit Erasmus

Erasmus showed flashes of predatory instincts after he came off the bench on 63 minutes in his second debut in place of Zakhele Lepasa against Sundowns.

Given Pirates' lack of a killer instinct in front of goal so far this season, the former Sundowns striker could be given the benefit of the doubt to try to change their fortunes in front of goal. 

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