Orlando Pirates had positive team news ahead of Saturday’s Nedbank Cup final, with Tapelo Xoki, Innocent Maela and Thembinkosi Lorch all available for selection, while Makhehleni Makhaula is suspended.
The Buccaneers face Sekhukhune United in Saturday’s sold-out affair at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, and will attempt to lift their third Ke Yona Cup since Nedbank took over the sponsorship in 2008.
They won the tournament in 2010/11 and 2013/14, beating Black Leopards and Bivest Wits 3-1 in those finals. However, they lost their last two final appearances, losing 3-2 to SuperSport United in 2015/16 and 4-1 to the same opponents a year later.
Ahead of Saturday’s final, Jose Riveiro almost has a complete squad, with only midfielder Makhaula suspended.
“Midfielder Makhehleni Makhaula is one player guaranteed to sit out the final as he serves a one-match ban after picking up his fourth yellow card of the season against AmaZulu, while defender Tapelo Xoki will likely slot back into the match day squad after serving a suspension of his own,” the club stated.
“The Buccaneers’ midfield could also be bolstered by the possible return of Thabang Monare, who did not feature in Durban, but has since been heavily-involved in the preparations for the big fixture.
“Other possible starters include the experienced duo of skipper Innocent Maela and Thembinkosi Lorch, who both returned to action in the second half against Usuthu after both spent a brief spell in the sidelines.”
