Orlando Pirates midfielder to miss Nedbank Cup final

Orlando Pirates will miss one of their midfielders in the Nedbank Cup final against Sekhukhune United penciled at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on Saturday 27th of May.

Pirates closed off their DStv Premiership campaign on a high after beating AmaZulu FC 4-0 at the weekend.

The Buccaneers finished second on the log standings, behind champions Mamelodi Sundowns to qualify for CAF Champions League next season.

Pirates could finish the season with two trophies after winning the MTN8 trophy late last year after edging out AmaZulu in the final.

In the just-ended season, Pirates won 16 games in the league, drawn six and lost eight times in 30 games.

On the road to the final, the Soweto giants brushed aside Venda Football Academy, All Stars and Dondol Stars. In addition, they beat rivals Kaizer Chiefs in extra-time semi-finals at FNB Stadium to book a spot in the final.

ORLANDO PIRATES TO MISS MAKHEHLENI MAKHAULA IN THE NEDBANK CUP FINAL

Pirates will have to do without the services of Makhehlene Makhaula, who accumulated the his fourth yellow card against Usuthu.

Makhaula joined Pirates from AmaZulu during the January transfer window to be part of the already booted midfield position.

The Houghton-based side have Miguel Timm, Ben Motshwari, Goodman Mosele, Fortune Makaringe, Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo and Thabang Monare fighting for the starting berth in the midfield.

Additionally, Makhaula has made 10 appearances in all competitions for since joining Pirates at the beginning of 2023.

Meanwhile, the Coach of the Season award has nominated Pirates head coach Jose Riveiro.

The nomination includes Gavin Hunt of SuperSport United, and Rulani Mokwena of Mamelodi Sundowns.

The Spaniard mentor will be looking increase his chances of winning the Coach of the Year award with winning the Nedbank Cup final. The final is scheduled for 18:00 kickoff.

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