Orlando Pirates have suffered a major setback ahead of their MTN8 semi-final second leg against Mamelodi Sundowns, with defender Deano Van Rooyen ruled out through injury.
The Buccaneers travel to the Lucas Masterpieces Moripe Stadium on Saturday (15:00 kick-off) with the tie finely poised at 1-1. However, Sundowns take a slight edge into the clash thanks to the away goals rule, which is still in effect in this competition.
Van Rooyen picked up the knock in midweek against his former side, Stellenbosch FC, and was forced off in the first half. Head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou confirmed that the 26-year-old will not be fit in time.
“We don’t yet have the full medical report, but what I can say is that he won’t be available for this game,” Ouaddou told the media.
His absence leaves Pirates with a selection dilemma at right-back. Kamogelo Sebelebele is the frontrunner to step in, while Bandile Shandu, Thabiso Lebitso, Siyabonga Ndlozi and Tshepo Mashiloane are also in contention.
With a place in the MTN8 final on the line and a sold-out crowd expected, the Buccaneers will need to find the right balance at the back to contain Sundowns’ firepower.
