View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Soccer Laduma (@soccer_laduma)

Login

Bucs Captain Opens Up On Fitness Ahead Of MTN8 Final

Bucs Captain Opens Up On Fitness Ahead Of MTN8 Final

Orlando Pirates captain Innocent Maela has provided an update on his fitness ahead of the MTN8 final, after he was taken off in the Soweto Derby against Kaizer Chiefs over the weekend.

Maela came off during the first half of his side's clash against the Buccaneers on Saturday with a knock and was part of training on Tuesday morning as the Soweto giants officially began their preparations for the final against AmaZulu at Moses Mabhida Stadium this Saturday. 

READ: 5 Lessons From The Soweto Derby

"People saw that I could not finish the game because of the niggle that I had, but we are still busy with the team doctors. We are still busy with the physios, so yeah, it's still early to tell. I mean, I feel good and I feel confident but we will see as the week goes by," Maela said during a MTN8 press conference at Rand Stadium on Tuesday morning. 

Sign In

After the press conference, Maela got involved in training with the team, and looked as though the niggle was not giving him problems, but the club will continue to monitor the situation as they hope to have their trusted captain in defence for the crucial encounter.

READ: Pirates' Cup Final Goalkeeper Conundrum 

Pirates, meanwhile, still have veteran striker Ndumiso Mabena training with the side. Mabena parted ways with Royal AM and is looking to make a return, though it's unclear at this stage if the Buccaneers will give him an opportunity. 

You must be Sign In to read and post comments.   

Sign In

Related tags

Comments

Top 5

Sundowns To Release Former Chiefs Target?

Apr 30, 2025 02:43 PM in Mamelodi-Sundowns

Pyramids’ 'Special' Request Approved Ahead Of Final

Apr 29, 2025 11:05 AM in African Football

Ekstein Celebrates Growing Family

Apr 30, 2025 11:18 AM in Fan Park

Chiefs To Fine Players For Losing?

Apr 30, 2025 12:39 PM in Kaizer-Chiefs

Pyramids Make Decision On Coach After Bucs Win

Apr 28, 2025 11:25 AM in African Football

Contract Update: How Pirates Will Adjust GK Selections

May 02, 2025 12:53 PM in Orlando-Pirates

Matlou: Chiefs Competing For Top 8 Instead Of The League

May 02, 2025 12:31 PM in Kaizer-Chiefs

Exiled Wydad Star 'Returns' After Mokwena Exit

May 01, 2025 03:28 PM in African Football

Lorch's Unique Dining Experience

May 02, 2025 01:48 PM in Fan Park