Orlando Pirates will be hosting Mamelodi Sundowns in the MTN8 semi-final first leg at Orlando Stadium on Saturday, but it has been revealed that they will be without a few key players.
Speaking during the press conference at the PSL Offices in Parktown, Johannesburg, head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou said that it's unfortunate they will miss some of their players.
The Moroccan-born mentor revealed that captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, defender Olisa Ndah and midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula will not be available for selection against the Brazilians due to various reasons.
"Most of the players are available, we only have Nkosinathi Sibisi (out), Makhehleni Makhaula, who is still coming back from his injury. We still have Olisa Ndah out but most of the players are still available," Ouaddou told the media.
Meanwhile, the coach added that even after losing two games in a row, they are still positive that they can do well against Sundowns on Saturday.
"If you are an expert, as you say, you can see that every game is different. Even in those games, there were positive things which we could take from there. Of course, other things didn't go well. But we are here to work to improve ourselves. The players are understanding," Ouaddou concluded.
The pressure could mount on Ouaddou following Pirates' disappointing start to the 2025/26 Betway Premiership season, having suffered defeats to both Sekhukhune United and Marumo Gallants in their opening two league fixtures.
The Moroccan coach will be desperate to avoid a third consecutive loss, particularly against traditional rivals Sundowns, as questions begin to surface about his tactical approach and squad management.
A poor result in this high-profile MTN8 semi-final could further intensify scrutiny on his position at the Soweto giants. Though, on the other hand, this could also be an ideal opportunity to pick up a famous win, regain confidence and start a run of victories.
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