Ouaddou Gives Latest Update on Sibisi, Makhaula and Maswanganyi Ahead of MTN8 Final

• Abdeslam Ouaddou gives new injury updates on three key players for Orlando Pirates ahead of the MTN8 final
• The two Premier Soccer League giants would be facing the final, which is a replay of last season's showdown in the same competition
• The former Marumo Gallants mentor would be going all out to win his first major title for the Soweto giants this weekend

Coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has provided an injury update about three Orlando Pirates players ahead of their mouthwatering clash against Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 final this weekend.

The Soweto giants are working on making it four MTN8 titles in a row when they face the Stellies at the Mbombela Stadium on Saturday, September 13, 2025. It is a repeat of last season's final in the competition, with the Buccaneers winning to set a new record of three successive years of winning the tournament.

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Ahead of the final, Orlando Pirates were sweating about the availability of some of the players due to injury. Some are also just returning from international duty, mainly with the Bafana Bafana of South Africa.

Ouaddou provides injury update on Pirates

Ouaddou, who recently got involved in an accident, expressed his delight at the return of skipper Nkosinathi Sibisi, describing it as a big boost for the squad after his lengthy absence.

The Moroccan tactician claimed that having such influential players back is always rewarding for any coach, especially when they have contributed so much to the club’s success.

He also welcomed Makhehleni Makhaula’s recovery, stressing that increased squad depth only benefits the team. However, Ouaddou emphasised the need for patience, noting that after a long spell on the sidelines, the priority is ensuring Makhaula’s full fitness and avoiding setbacks.

He explained that the technical team was working closely with the medical staff to make the best decisions for both the player and the club.

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“I always say that the more choices we have, the better it is for a coach. So, of course, I’m very happy that Makhaula is coming back," he said.

“So we speak with them [medics], but of course, we will try to make the right decision for him, for the club, and for the team.”

On Patrick “Tito” Maswanganyi, who recently withdrew from international duty with Bafana Bafana, the Bucs coach confirmed that his injury wasn’t as severe as first feared.

The former Marumo Gallants head coach said that being cleared to train and feature again was a positive sign and admitted he was relieved to have the playmaker available.

“Anytime one of my players is out injured, it’s disappointing, so having Tito back is really encouraging,” he added.

Pirates star told to move to Europe

Briefly News previously reported that an Orlando Pirates star has been advised to consider leaving the PSL for a move to Europe, which would be a boost for his football career.

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Source: Briefly News