Orlando Pirates have confirmed that goalkeeper Sipho Chaine has fullly recovered and is available for selection against Mamelodi Sundowns, while three players could make their club debut.
Chaine started 2023/24 as Jose Riveiro’s first-choice goalkeeper but then picked up an injury in the Carling Knockout Last-16 clash with Cape Town Spurs and has been sidelined since.
However, it seems the Africa Cup of Nations break came at the right time for the shot stopper, who is now back in contention.
New signings Thabiso Lebitso and Thalente Mbatha, as well as returnee Tshegofatso Mabasa could also feature for the Buccaneers against Sundowns, while Azola Matrose could also make his long-awaited first-team debut after making several appearances for the club’s DStv Diski Challenge side.
“Thabiso Lebitso and Thalente Mbatha will both be eyeing debut appearances in Pirates colours, while striker Tshegofatso Mabasa has a chance to feature once again for the Club after his return from loan,” the club stated on their website.
“Also nearing his First-Team debut for the Buccaneers is attacking midfielder Azola Matrose, who is fully fit after his spell on the sidelines, while goalkeeper Sipho Chaine is also among those back in full training following an injury layoff.”
Pirates, who lost their last two DStv Premiership games against SuperSport United and Stellenbosch FC before the break, are currently sitting in fifth spot with 25 points from 16 games – 13 behind Sundowns, who have two games in hand.
