Atrociously bad news for Orlando Pirates fans, unfortunately. A key man will play no further part in the 2024-2025 season.
Season over for Sesane
Key central defender Thabiso Sesane damaged tendons in the leg in the hard-fought victory over Sekhukhune. He subsequently missed Pirates’ 4-1 defeat to Sundowns and now looks set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. The 24-year-old has featured in 13 of the club’s 14 league encounters this term. Tapeolo Xoki deputized against Sundowns and will likely be his replacement long-term.
According to MyHealthy.Alberta.ca, via FarPost, a ruptured tendon injury requires surgery and takes up to six months to heal. However, the recovery period can be even longer than that. It’s a huge blow for Pirates in their quest to win the Caf Champions League and Betway Premiership.
What’s next for the Sea Robbers?
Pirates got a reality check in the title race last time out, losing 4-1 to defending champions Sundowns. However, the Brazilians slipped up in a surprise defeat to TS Galaxy in their following match. All is not lost in Pirates’ quest for the Betway Prem crown. They trail Sundowns by nine points but have two games in hand. Next up for Riveiro’s side is a Nedbank Cup R16 clash at home against Baroka on Saturday 15 Feb at 15:00. The Sea Robbers return to Betway Premiership action on Wednesday 19 February, away to Golden Arrows. Kickoff in that clash is at 19:30.
Riveiro wants a more dynamic midfield unit
Orlando Pirates boss Jose Riveiro sees his midfield unit as a dynamic organism that needs to adjust to all game states. Veteran star Makhehlene Makhaula has been enjoying his forays into the final third lately. The 35-year-old midfield general arrived in January 2023 and has made 13 league appearances this term.
“Makhaula is more defensive, Kabelo is more offensive, but in this team, we defend as a team,” said Jose Riveiro via FARPost. “When we have the ball, we attack as a team. As you have seen recently Makhaula’s evolution, he is offensive when we are on the ball. He has been impressive for us.
Will Pirates deal with Sesane’s absence?
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