Orlando Pirates have issued a crucial injury update on Evidence Makgopa, Thalente Mbatha, Mohau Nkota, and Andre De Jong as preparation ramps up for their MTN8 title defence in next month’s highly anticipated final.
The Buccaneers are set to lock horns with rivals Mamelodi Sundowns in the showpiece final on 10 October, though the league is still to announce the venue and kick-off time for the blockbuster clash.
Pirates are chasing a fifth consecutive MTN8 title, having lifted the trophy in the past four seasons. The Soweto giants won the competition three times under José Riveiro before securing it again last season with Abdeslam Ouaddou at the wheel. That victory capped off an impressive domestic treble for Pirates, who also captured the Carling Knockout Cup and Betway Premiership titles.
As they aim to defend their crown, Pirates face a steep challenge against the reigning CAF Champions League winners – Sundowns.
On Monday morning, the club delivered an encouraging report, confirming that Makgopa and Mbatha could be available following the ongoing FIFA international break. Pirates also provided positive updates on Nkota and De Jong, noting that while no return timeframe has been set, the pair has entered the final stages of rehabilitation.
MBATHA AND MAKGOPA NEARING RETURN
“After missing the opening stages of the 2026/27 season, Bafana Bafana internationals Evidence Makgopa and Thalente Mbatha have returned to full-team training following their recovery from their respective injuries,” Pirates said on their website.
“Mbatha has been sidelined with a knee injury since 10 August 2026, while Makgopa has been receiving treatment for patellar tendinitis since 5 August 2026. Both players have also featured in friendly matches as they continue working towards regaining full match fitness.”
“Mohau Nkota and Andre de Jong are continuing to make progress in their respective rehabilitation programmes.
“Nkota is recovering from a knee injury, while De Jong is undergoing treatment for a hamstring injury. Both players have progressed to field-based rehabilitation.
“Although no timeframe has been confirmed for their return, the move to on-field rehabilitation represents a positive step in their recovery.”
The club also provided a positive update on Sihle Nduli’s injury recovery. Having successfully cleared the latest phase of his rehabilitation programme, the 30-year-old has now resumed on-field running exercises.”
Pirates’ senior physiotherapist Kutlwano Molefe revealed: “Sihle has started running on the field and is scheduled to undergo field-based rehabilitation for approximately two weeks before beginning his reintegration into full-team training.”
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