Orlando Pirates will face Cape Town City FC on Wednesday in a crucial Betway Premiership match but will be without a key member of their squad due to suspension.
The highly anticipated Premiership clash between Pirates and CT City is set to kick off at 7:30 PM on Wednesday at Cape Town Stadium. Both sides enter the encounter brimming with confidence, seeking to extend their winning streaks in the league.
Pirates are currently riding a wave of momentum, having secured impressive victories in their last two matches. They demolished Marumo Gallants 8-1 before edging past 10-man Magesi FC 1-0 in their most recent outing.
Meanwhile, Cape Town City, under the guidance of former Pirates coach Muhsin Ertugral, will be aiming to register consecutive victories. Ertugral enjoyed a dream start to his tenure, guiding CT City to a 1-0 triumph over fellow Soweto giants Kaizer Chiefs in his first match in charge.
This will be the third meeting between the two sides this season. In their previous encounters, during the MTN8 semi-finals, Pirates emerged victorious with a 3-1 aggregate score. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw, while Pirates secured a 2-0 victory in the return leg.
MAKHEHLENE MAKHAULA SUSPENDED AGAINST CAPE TOWN CITY FC
The Happy People will have to do without midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula when they take on CT City. Makhaula will be serving a one-match suspension after receiving four yellow cards, and he’s the only player suspended in the mid-week fixtures.
Last time out against Magesi, striker Tshegofatso Mabasa was suspended for Pirates after picking up four yellow cards. All of Makhaula’s four bookings were during league matches against SuperSport United, AmaZulu FC, Richards Bay FC and Magesi FC.
The 35-year-old has been a regular player in Pirates’ midfield this campaign, showcasing consistent performances each time. So far, the experienced midfielder has made 21 appearances across all competitions.
Pirates have depth in midfield that can feel the void left by Makhaula. In that midfield position, they have other midfielders like Miguel Timm, Phillip Ndlondlo and Selaelo Rasebotja.
RELATED STORY: Riveiro explains Makhehlene Makhaula’s importance to Pirates’ midfield
