All Eyes On A Potential First For Pirates In Cup

Mpho Chabatsane during Orlando Pirates training at Rand Stadium recently

Mpho Chabatsane could be set to finally make his long-awaited debut for Orlando Pirates when the Buccaneers take on Tshakhuma Tsha Madzivhandila in the Nedbank Cup Last 32 at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday. 

The defender, who joined Pirates from Marumo Gallants, has yet to feature in an official match for the Soweto giants but now appears closer than ever to getting his opportunity, especially with the Nedbank Cup often providing a platform for rotation and squad players.

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With other January signings Andre de Jong and Daniel Msendami having already made their debuts for the Buccaneers, Chabatsane could be the next new face to feature under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou.

The 23-year-old has appeared on the bench in recent matches, suggesting that he is firmly in the coach’s plans and edging closer to a first appearance in the famous Black and White.

Adding to the possibility of his inclusion is the absence of regular centre-back Lebone Seema, who will miss the cup encounter due to suspension.

Seema has been one of Pirates’ most consistent performers this season, and his unavailability could open the door for Chabatsane to stake his claim.

Sources indicate that Chabatsane was recruited as a long-term replacement for Mbekezeli Mbokazi, who has since moved to Chicago Fire, with the club viewing him as a player capable of developing into a reliable option at the heart of defence.

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With Pirates looking to begin their Nedbank Cup campaign on a strong note, the clash against Tshakhuma could present the ideal stage for Chabatsane to announce himself in Buccaneers colours.

Whether he starts or is introduced from the bench, all signs point to the defender being on the cusp of a much-anticipated debut as Pirates aim to progress in the competition.

Photo by Sydney Mahlangu/BackpagePix 

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