Orlando Pirates could be without their most influential midfielder ahead of their anticipated clash with Mamelodi Sundowns.
The two giants of South African football clash on Wednesday evening at the FNB Stadium in a Betway Premiership clash.
The Buccaneers are likely to miss Thalente Mbatha in the middle of the park. The 25-year-old midfielder picked up an injury which forced him out of the Marumo Gallants this past weekend.
According to Soccer Beat, Mbatha might miss Wednesday’s crucial encounter.
“Word reaching SoccerBeat is that Orlando Pirates midfielder Thalente Mbatha has picked up an injury. At this stage, the nature and extent of the injury have not yet been confirmed,” the publication wrote on their X account.
Although Mbatha has been important for Pirates this season, he has only played a total of 16 matches across all competitions. His absence could be a huge blow, but Abdeslam Ouaddou has several players to replace the talented midfielder.
Which other midfielder can Orlando Pirates rely on?
The likes of Sipho Mbule and Masindi Nemtajela can also be brought in to assist in the central midfield position against Sundowns.
With Makhehlene Makhaula expected to start in central defence, the Buccaneers will look to pack the midfield and make it difficult for the Brazilians to play.
Mbule will be the right midfielder for Orlando Pirates to start with on Wednesday, alongside Makhaula.
Another injury concern at the Bucs camp is captain Nkosinathi Sibisi. The 30-year-old appeared to be in pain when he was tackled against Gallants but did finish the rest of the match.