Orlando Pirates returned to Betway Premiership action yesterday with a 2-0 victory over Chippa United.
Pirates’ win over Chippa at the Orlando Stadium continued their winning momentum of now four in the last five matches.
Mbokazi set to join Fire in the MLS
It was also a rare occasion where Pirates featured a line up without their young talisman Mbekezeli Mbokazi. Even in his absence they had no problems keeping a clean sheet against the visitors from Gqeberha. The 20-year-old is reportedly on the verge of leaving the Buccaneers ship in the January transfer window. This after widespread reports claimed his R51 million move to Chicago Fire in the MLS will be done imminently.
Now of course, Mbokazi with his ability and what he offers Pirates will always be a big miss. But, should he move on it certainly won’t be all doom and gloom for the Sea Robbers. The Hluhluwe-born star was present at the Orlando Stadium on Tuesday night as well. In fact, coach Abdeslam Ouaddou went as far as saying he doesn’t know anything about the move to Fire. He also claimed that the player was just being rotated.
Ndah returns just in time
But signs are there that Mbokazi may have played his last match for Pirates. If that is indeed the case, then the return of one man would’ve come at the perfect time. On the subs bench yesterday, Olisa Ndah featured for the first time this season. The Nigerian International has been out with a serious injury since early last season. Having been training on the grass for some months now, the club have clearly taken the cautious route with his recovery.
Before the emergence of Mbokazi, Ndah had the label of being Pirates’ best centre-back. Now with him being on the bench on Tuesday, signs are he can play a crucial role in the second half of the season. He returns with serious competition from Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lebone Seema, however, so he is not guaranteed to start. But his presence and experience being there as an option for Ouaddou will be huge.
Happy with his return Pirates fans?
Pirates fans, are you happy with the timing of Ndah’s return, especially as Mbokazi edges closer to the exit door? Feel free to leave your thoughts and feelings in the comments below.