Pirates coach Riveiro

Jose Riveiro, coach of Orlando Pirates during the DStv Premiership 2022/23 game between Cape Town City and Orlando Pirates at Cape Town Stadium on 7 January 2023 © Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix

Orlando Pirates handed MAJOR boost ahead of City clash

It’s advantage Orlando Pirates in the middle of the park on Saturday afternoon when they host rivals Cape Town City FC

Pirates coach Riveiro

Jose Riveiro, coach of Orlando Pirates during the DStv Premiership 2022/23 game between Cape Town City and Orlando Pirates at Cape Town Stadium on 7 January 2023 © Ryan Wilkisky/BackpagePix

Orlando Pirates have been handed a major boost ahead of Saturday’s DStv Premiership clash against Cape Town City FC.

Jose Riveiro’s side will be looking to pull two points clear in the race for second spot on the log.

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And they’ll get to do so against a suspension hit Cape Town City side!

Eric Tinkler’s side will be without TWO key players due to SUSPENSION at the Orlando Stadium.

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Two key City players suspended for Orlando Pirates clash

Midfield duo of Brice Ambina and Thabo Nodada both miss out.

21-year-old Ambina misses his second consecutive game after picking up a red-card against Mamelodi Sundowns earlier this month.

Fellow midfield regular Thabo Nodada is also suspended after picking up a red-card in City’s previous match against AmaZulu.

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Thabo Nodada Orlando Pirates Kaizer Chiefs
Cape Town City star Thabo Nodada has revealed that Orlando Pirates came calling for his services in the past. Photo: Backpagepix

In other news, Phathutshedzo Nange was once again nowhere to be seen in Kaizer Chiefs’ matchday squad this weekend.

The midfielder returned from compassionate leave due to a family bereavement two weeks ago however he’s unable to make Arthur Zwane’s 18-man match squad.

Things haven’t gone according to plan for Phathutshedzo Nange at Kaizer Chiefs this season.

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The former Bidvest Wits star has made just ONE start under Arthur Zwane, playing a total of 142 minutes of football!

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There is a silver lining to Nange’s troubles though as he’s been linked with a move away from Naturena.

A move that will undoubtedly see him play under a coach that values him more than Arthur Zwane.

At least TWO top flight sides are interested in signing Nange next season according to the latest transfer reports.

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According to FarPost, both SuperSport United and Stellenbosch FC are keen on his services.

“His work rate is held in high regard by the two coaches. It’s understandable because of what he did for both of them.”

“Gavin wants him at SuperSport United, while Steve Barker is also interested in him. It’ll all come down to who gives him the better offer.”

Kaizer Chiefs Nange
Phathutshedzo Nange of Bidvest Wits challenged by Anthony Agay of Kaizer Chiefs during the Absa Premiership match between Bidvest Wits and Kaizer Chiefs on the 30 August 2020 at FNB Stadium, Pic Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix

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