As the Nedbank Cup’s last 32 roars to life this weekend, notable figures like Nasreddine Nabi, Tashreeq Morris, Nkosinathi Sibisi and Lucas Ribeiro find themselves among 23 suspensions. In what promises to be yet another exciting competition, Motsepe Foundation Championship side Pretoria Callies and Marumo Gallants will clash in the first match of the Nedbank Cup at Lucas Moripe Stadium on Friday night.
Due to suspensions, Kaizer Chiefs, Orlando Pirates, and Mamelodi Sundowns will have notable absentees from their squads for weekend matches.
Chiefs will be without their head coach, Nabi. The Tunisian tactician received a red card during the club’s 1-0 defeat against Golden Arrows. He is serving his last suspension after missing the game against Sekhukhune United, which the Chiefs won 1-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium.
Meanwhile, Chiefs’ new signing, Tashreeq Morris, will have to wait a little longer before debuting after being suspended from his former club, SuperSport United.
The 30-year-old striker is one of Glamour Boys’ two January signings so far. DR Congo winger Glody Lilepo, who is joining Valenciennes FC from the French third-division side, is another player on his way to Chiefs.
MAMELODI SUNDOWNS WILL BE WITHOUT THE SERVICES OF LUCAS RIBEIRO
In another big blow, Mamelodi Sundowns will miss the services of Lucas Ribeiro. The Brazilian received his fourth yellow card of the season on Wednesday. This was when he helped his side claim a 2-1 victory over Magesi FC.
So far this season, the Brazilian attacker scored nine goals and provided seven assists in 24 appearances across all competitions.
In addition, the defending champions, Orlando Pirates, will miss Nkosinathi Sibisi in the heart of defence. The Bafana Bafana defender will serve a one-match suspension. Sibisi received his fourth yellow card during Pirates 1-0 defeat against Cape Town City.
Other players that will be sidelined for the first round of the Nedbank Cup are Celimpilo Ngema, Wayde Jooste, Amadou Soukouna, Khaya Mfecane, Liam Bern, Sinamandla Zondi, Lungelo Dube, Sibonelo Cele, Samuel Darpoh, Gabadinho Mhango, Devine Lunga, Masindi Nemtajela, Lebohang Nkaki, Justice Figareido, Moses Mthembu, Sibusiso Magaqa, Vuyo Letlapa, Tresor Yamba Yamba, and Tenda Tavengwa.
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