Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has commented on the absence of talented attacker Relebohile Mofokeng from the club’s Friday training session.
Mofokeng was a notable absentee when the Buccaneers completed their final preparations at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on Friday morning for the upcoming CAF Champions League match.
The Bucs welcome Lesotho champions Lioli FC for the first preliminary round clash on Saturday [15h00], holding a commanding 3-0 advantage following their first-leg win at the Free State Stadium in Bloemfontein. That victory was secured by a brace from Tshegofatso Mabasa and a goal from Oswin Appollis.
The 20-year-old played a key role in the midweek 1-0 victory against Siwelele FC on Tuesday, contributing to the winning goal before being substituted late in the match.
WHAT OUADDOU SAID ABOUT RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG
The French-Moroccan mentor was a bit coy when discussing the matter of Mofokeng. “I have to speak with my medical department to see what is going on. Rele is an important player for us, but we have to speak to the medical team. I can’t tell you more about him,” the Bucs mentor said.
Meanwhile, Pirates will be hoping to make light work of the visiting side, having reached the semi-finals of the same competition last season under Jose Riveiro.
Club captain Nkosinathi Sibisi expressed their awareness of the demands expected of them on Saturday afternoon, emphasising their clear goal to advance to the next round.
“Another Champions League game at home,” Sibisi said. “I think for us, we want to get to the next round. And in order for us to get to the next round, we have to win the game tomorrow. Or at least get a draw. But we know what we have to do, and we’re playing in our home stadium. Hopefully, our supporters will come in numbers to give us the support, and hopefully, we’ll get the results.”
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