Abdeslam Ouaddou Provides CAF Injury Report - Mbatha And Sebelebele Updates

Ralph Staniforth

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Last updated: 53 minutes ago

Ralph Staniforth 53 minutes ago

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Coach Ouaddou confirmed Mbatha was rested to prevent injury relapse, while Sebelebele’s issue is not thought to be serious.
Simphiwe Masilela earned praise after scoring his first senior goal, with Ouaddou highlighting his potential.
Bulelani Sigomoshe impressed on his debut as Pirates continue to promote emerging talent.

Pirates coach Ouaddou has lavished praise on attacking midfielder Simphiwe Masilela (Getty Images).

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has provided an update on Thalente Mbatha and Kamogelo Sebelebele following the Buccaneers’ 3-0 victory over TS Galaxy.
Mbatha And Sebelebele Injury Updates
Ouaddou Praises Pirates’ Debutant
Masilela Tipped For A Bright Future

The Moroccan coach also praised young midfielder Simphiwe Masilela after the 22-year-old scored his first senior goal for the club ahead of a key CAF Champions League match.

Mbatha And Sebelebele Injury Updates

Thalente Mbatha was rested against TS Galaxy after recently returning from a lengthy injury lay-off, with Ouaddou insisting that Pirates would not rush the midfielder back into action. “We don’t want to take risks with Mbatha. He’s an important player for us,” the coach said, while also praising his performance in the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns as being of a “high level.”

Sebelebele, meanwhile, remains a concern after picking up a problem during the MTN8 final, although Ouaddou hopes the issue is not serious. “I’m not a doctor, but I don’t think… and I hope it is not serious,” he said, suggesting fatigue or cramp could have contributed to the problem.

Ouaddou Praises Pirates’ Debutant

Pirates have continued to give opportunities to emerging players, with Bulelani Sigomoshe also impressing against TS Galaxy after being handed a debut at right back.

Abdeslam Ouaddou has emphasised the importance of hard work and professionalism, with players needing to earn their places through their performances in training.

Sigomoshe arrived from Milford FC where he was used as a right winger. He is now being converted into a fullback at Bucs.

Masilela Tipped For A Bright Future

Ouaddou reserved special praise for Simphiwe Masilela, describing the attacking midfielder as one of the finest young talents he has worked with during his coaching career. “I have seen lots of young players and he is one of the best I have seen,” the Pirates coach said.

However, the coach has challenged Masilela to keep working hard and avoid becoming distracted by showboating rather than making decisive contributions. “This is exactly what we expect from a modern 10,” Ouaddou said, encouraging the youngster to continue developing his game and fulfil his potential.

Ralph Staniforth is a South African sports journalist, editor and betting writer who has worked in sports media since 2012.

With a background in Sports Science, he has covered a wide range of sports and interviewed leading players and coaches across South African rugby, cricket and football.

His sports betting work covers both South African and international markets, combining his knowledge of sport with extensive experience analysing fixtures, teams, form and betting markets.

Ralph specialises in football and rugby, while also covering cricket, tennis and golf. His work includes match previews, betting tips, betting guides and broader analysis of the sports betting industry.

You can find more from Ralph at Muckrack and LinkedIn.