Soweto Derby Blow As Bafana Bafana Star Ruled Out of Kaizer Chiefs vs Orlando Pirates Clash
- Orlando Pirates wingback Kamogelo Sebelebele has been sidelined since picking up an injury during the MTN8 final
- Sebelebele scored the equalising goal in the last Soweto Derby, making his absence a significant blow for the Buccaneers
- Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou faces a key selection decision at right-back ahead of Saturday's Betway Premiership clash
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Orlando Pirates face a selection headache ahead of Saturday's Soweto Derby after Bafana Bafana defender Kamogelo Sebelebele was ruled out with an injury sustained in the MTN8 final.
The speedy wingback has not featured for the Buccaneers since the cup final and sat out recent fixtures, including a CAF Champions League outing and Tuesday's Carling Knockout Cup match against Milford FC. The Betway Premiership clash against Kaizer Chiefs at FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon could also come too soon for his return.
Sebelebele's Absence Leaves a Void
Sebelebele's impact this season has been considerable, making him one of Pirates' standout performers. His importance to the side was underlined in the previous Soweto Derby, when he netted the equaliser in a 1-1 draw to rescue a point for his team.
Losing him at this stage of the campaign, particularly for a fixture of this magnitude, represents a genuine setback for coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.
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Sigomoshe Likely to Step In at Right-Back
With Sebelebele unavailable, Ouaddou is expected to turn to Bulelani Sigomoshe to fill the right-back berth. The 26-year-old has made six appearances for Pirates this season and has been dependable in the defensive third, even if he offers less of an attacking threat than his counterpart.
Sigomoshe's ability to also operate in midfield adds a tactical dimension for Ouaddou. His versatility could allow players such as Thalente Mbatha greater freedom to push forward, while the attacking burden on the right flank would likely fall to either Mohau Nkota or Kabelo Kgositsile, who would be tasked with exploiting Chiefs' left side.
Defensive solidity will be critical for Pirates on Saturday. Chiefs forward Wandile Duba is capable of punishing any lapse in concentration at the back, and Ouaddou will need his defensive unit to remain organised and disciplined throughout the match.
The Soweto Derby kicks off at FNB Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
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Source: Briefly News
