Orlando Pirates defender Olisa Ndah was a surprise miss in the Orlando Pirates starting eleven for the Carling Black Label Cup against Soweto rivals Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday.
Ndah was voted by the champion fans to play. However, he chose to honor and prioritise his call up to the Nigerian national team.
The Super Eagles will take on 2016 European Champions Portugal in a international friendly match on November 17th.
The 24-year-old who only has one cap to his name for Nigeria was granted permission not to participate by the club. He is still young and has a bright future with the national team.
The centre back has been key for the Bucs so far this season marshalling the defense under coach Jose Riveiro. He has played 16 matches in all competitions and guided the Soweto giants to their first title of the season.
He, however, faces serious competition in the squad. Many players called in the Pirates defense are overseas based players.
Due to his absence on the Saturday, Bandile Shandu came in to replace the Ndah in the Pirates defense. This meant Tapelo Xoki partnered with Sandile Mthethwa in the heart of the defense.
Another big miss for Amakhosi was midfield maestro Njabulo Blom. Chiefs coach Arthur Zwane confirmed that the Bafana Bafana international is not match fit as he is out with some sickness.
Therefore, Phathutshedzo Nange was called to replace Blom in the midfield.
