Orlando Pirates have received a significant boost ahead of Tuesday
night’s Carling Knockout quarter-final against Magesi FC, emerging from
their bruising CAF Champions League exit with no new injury concerns.
Despite the physical and emotional toll of a penalty shootout defeat to DR
Congo’s Saint-Éloi Lupopo on Saturday, the Buccaneers have an almost fully
fit squad to choose from as they host the Limpopo-based side at Orlando
Stadium.
Clean Bill of Health for Key Tie
The club confirmed that the squad came through the continental clash
unscathed, providing head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou with a full roster as he
plots a path to the cup semi-finals. The only players unavailable are
long-term absentees Selaelo Rasebotja and Thabiso Sesane, who are both
continuing their rehabilitation.
“This is a welcome boost for the technical team,” the club stated on its
official website, “as it allows for consistency in selection following the
team’s strong recent run of form.”
Shifting Focus to Domestic Glory
The timely return to full fitness allows Pirates to immediately redirect
their focus to domestic silverware. Elimination from the Champions League
makes a deep run in the Carling Knockout even more critical for the season’s
objectives.
They enter the match in formidable form, unbeaten in their last ten matches
across all competitions. Their home advantage is particularly pronounced,
with seven consecutive victories at Orlando Stadium showcasing their
dominance in Soweto.
Magesi Pose a Threat
However, Pirates will not be taking their opponents lightly. Magesi, the
defending champions of this competition, arrive with confidence after
keeping their title defence alive with a dramatic 3-2 away victory over
AmaZulu in the previous round. They are poised to challenge Pirates’
impressive home record and disrupt their quest for a quick rebound.
