Orlando Pirates have encountered a major setback with the news that key defender Olisa Ndah has been ruled out for the remainder of the year due to injury. Ndah sustained a tibia fracture during a match against Polokwane City in the Betway Premiership at Orlando Stadium.
The Nigerian defender has been a crucial asset for the team under coach Jose Riveiro, significantly contributing to their success in securing a place in the CAF Champions League group stages and reaching the MTN8 final. Unfortunately, he missed the MTN8 final, where Pirates triumphed 3-1 over Stellenbosch FC, due to his injury.
The Buccaneers will be without key defender Olisa Ndah, who faces an extended period on the sidelines,” the club stated. The Nigerian international, who missed out on the MTN8 final after suffering an injury in the league match against Polokwane City, is expected to be out for a lengthy spell.
The Pirates’ medical department confirmed that the 26-year-old has suffered a tibia fracture. Due to the injury’s location and nature, the decision regarding surgery is complex, leading to Ndah being ruled out for the rest of the year.
In addition to Ndah, the Buccaneers are grappling with injuries to other players, including Thalente Mbatha, Bandile Shandu, Tapelo Xoki, Goodman Mosele, Zakhele Lepasa, Thabiso Lebitso, Sandile Mthethwa, and Ethan Visagie.
The Pirates will host newly promoted side Magesi FC at Orlando Stadium on Saturday in their Carling Black Label Cup opener, hoping to navigate these challenges successfully.
