Orlando Pirates are gearing up to face Algerian giants CR Belouizdad in the penultimate CAF Champions League group stage match, and here are the observations we made from their training session.
Currently topping Group C, a victory against the Algerians would all but secure their place in the knockout stages of Africa’s premier club competition. The match has been scheduled for the Orlando Stadium at 3PM on Sunday afternoon.
SALENG AND MONYANE ABSENT FROM PIRATES TRAINING SESSION
Monnapule Saleng, a key figure in the Pirates squad, was noticeably absent from the training session. The winger was also omitted from the matchday squad against Stade d’Abidjan last week, with coach Jose Riveiro citing player availability as a sensitive topic.
Right-back Thabiso Monyane was also missing from training, although the reason for his absence remains unclear. Several other injured players continued their rehabilitation away from the main group.
MASWANGANYI REBOUNDS FROM SETBACK
Patrick Maswanganyi, visibly distraught after missing a penalty in the recent loss to Cape Town City, appeared to be in high spirits during the training session.
“Seeing players upset [after losing] is a good sign. It shows the character we have. It shows we want to win, win, win. Tito is a good professional; he was okay a few hours after the game. He started analysing the game where he could improve and get better,” commented Pirates captain Innocent Maela.
RIVEIRO HINTS AT POTENTIAL JANUARY REINFORCEMENTS
The Spanish tactician, Jose Riveiro, acknowledged the January transfer window as an opportunity for clubs to strengthen their squads.
“The club is obviously trying to strengthen the team, and it’s a market period now, so let’s see what happens from now on moving forward,” he stated, suggesting that Orlando Pirates may explore the transfer market to bolster their squad.
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