Orlando Pirates are set to welcome back their defensive “Rolls Royce,” Olisa Ndah, just when they need him most.
The Nigerian defender, sidelined since September 2024 due to a serious injury, has fully regained his fitness and is now ready to return to the matchday squad. His comeback couldn’t have come at a more crucial time for the Buccaneers.
Pirates Facing Defensive Challenges
With Thabiso Sesane recently ruled out due to a ruptured tendon in a match against Sekhukhune United, Coach Jose Riveiro has had to reshuffle his defensive lineup. Sesane had formed a solid partnership with Nkosinathi Sibisi, which helped stabilize the defense while Ndah and Tapelo Xoki were unavailable. Now that Sesane will be out for a while, Riveiro has leaned on Xoki to team up with Sibisi. But Ndah’s return offers a timely solution to Pirates’ defensive woes.
Ndah Ready for Selection
The towering center-back has been training with the squad and is said to be in excellent form ahead of his return. “Ndah has been performing well in recent weeks and is ready to be selected for upcoming matches,” a source shared, fueling hopes that he will be back in action soon.
Busy Schedule for Pirates
With a hectic few days ahead, Pirates are gearing up for an away game against Golden Arrows on Wednesday, followed by a home fixture against Cape Town City on Saturday. They also have a high-stakes Nedbank Cup quarter-final clash against SuperSport United. As defending champions Mamelodi Sundowns lead the league, Pirates need to maintain their consistency to keep their title hopes alive. A fully fit squad, with Ndah back in the fold, could be the key to their success.
Ndah’s return strengthens Pirates’ defense when depth is most needed. Sorting out the Monnapule Saleng situation will also help stabilize things off the pitch, but having Ndah’s experience and physicality could be crucial as the Buccaneers fight for both league and cup glory.
