Orlando Pirates suffered a meteoric blow in their pursuit of PSL glory, losing 4-1 to league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns.
The Buccaneers now lie nine points behind Miguel Cardoso’s side.
Sesane update
Bafana defender Thabiso Sesane, who ruptured his tendon against Sekhukhune United, was sorely missed in Jose Riveiro’s damning defeat.
Unfortunately, Orlando Pirates confirmed that the 24-year-old star needs surgery:
“Thabiso Sesane has been ruled out after suffering a ruptured tendon during Pirates’ hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sekhukhune United midweek. The injury, which occurred early in the match, has left the young defender in need of surgery.”
Mbatha update
Maestro midfielder Thalente Mbatha was another key player Orlando Pirates would have liked to have against Sundowns, but too suffered an injury against Sekhukhune United.
However, unlike Sesane, the 24-year-old is expected to make a quick recovery:
“Meanwhile, Mbatha, the dynamic midfielder and Bafana Bafana international has also been sidelined after failing a late fitness test. Mbatha picked up his injury during the same match against Sekhukhune, following a collision with an opposition player as he attempted to shoot at goal.
“The Bucs medical team has been working tirelessly to get Mbatha back on the pitch, but the decision has been made to prioritise his recovery. He will now focus on rehabilitation in the coming days, with hopes of a swift return to action.”
Orlando Pirates’ next league game will be against Golden Arrows on February 19 – it’s uncertain whether Mbatha will be ready by then. He will likely be available against Cape Town City on February 22.
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