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Pirates Boosted In Defender Crisis

Pirates Boosted In Defender Crisis

Olisa Ndah of Orlando Pirates during Orlando Pirates Media Day at Rand Stadium in Johannesburg on 28 January 2025

Orlando Pirates defender Olisa Ndah could finally be set for a return to the matchday squad after a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

The Nigerian international has not featured for the Buccaneers since suffering a severe injury in September 2024, but his comeback is at a crucial time for the club.

Read: Riveiro Hopes For Champions League Final Against Sundowns  

Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has been forced to reshuffle his defensive setup following an injury to Thabiso Sesane, who picked up a ruptured tendon against Sekhukhune United earlier this month.

In Sesane's absence, Tapelo Xoki has been deployed alongside Nkosinathi Sibisi at the heart of the defence.

Before Sesane's injury, he had formed a solid central defensive partnership with Sibisi while both Ndah and Xoki were out injured.

However, with Sesane now expected to miss a significant period, Pirates have received a boost with Ndah regaining fitness and training with the squad in recent weeks.

The towering centre-back is now in contention for selection in upcoming fixtures.

"He (Ndah) has done well in the past few weeks and will be ready when selected to play. He is in line to return in the coming matches, possibly this week," said an insider, speaking to the Siya crew. 

Pirates have a congested fixture schedule ahead as they prepare to face Golden Arrows away on Wednesday before returning home to host Cape Town City on Saturday. 

Read: Downs Appoint New U19 Head Coach 

With defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns leading the title race, Riveiro will be eager to have his strongest squad available to maintain their challenge for silverware.

Ndah's return is a timely reinforcement for the Buccaneers, as they aim to solidify their defence and collect maximum points in their pursuit of league glory.

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