Orlando Pirates are looking to maintain their unbeaten run under interim coach Mandla Ncikazi as they prepare for their penultimate match of the Betway Premiership season against AmaZulu this weekend.
Following a narrow but vital 1-0 win over SuperSport United on Tuesday at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium, the Buccaneers have cemented second place on the table with 59 points, securing a return to the CAF Champions League next season.
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This marks the third consecutive season the Soweto giants will finish as runners-up behind Mamelodi Sundowns.
With just two games left in the campaign, club insiders have hinted that changes to the line-up could be on the cards as Ncikazi and his technical team aim to end the season on a high. The squad will head to the Moses Mabhida Stadium – the same venue where they recently suffered heartbreak in the Nedbank Cup final against Kaizer Chiefs – hoping to make amends against a spirited AmaZulu side.
In goal, Sipho Chaine is expected to reclaim his spot after youngster Siyabonga Dladla was handed his debut against SuperSport.
Star attacker Relebohile Mofokeng is also set for a return after serving a one-match suspension.
The team will, however, be without the services of right-back Bandile Shandu, who is suspended.
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Deano van Rooyen is tipped to step in as his replacement. In midfield, Pirates have been dealt a blow with the injury to Selaelo Rasebotja, who has undergone surgery for a torn ACL and will be sidelined for an extended period.
Despite the challenges, Ncikazi's tenure has breathed new life into the Bucs, and the focus remains on finishing the season with maximum points and momentum heading into the next campaign.
