Orlando Pirates give injury update ahead of Sundowns clash

Africa 18 February 2026 at 06:14

Hlayisani Magoro

News Editor

Orlando Pirates have provided an injury update ahead of their top-of-the-table clash against Mamelodi Sundowns at the FNB Stadium on Wednesday (19h30).

The Buccaneers head into the crunch tie with a six-point lead at the summit of the Betway Premiership table, having picked up 38 points in 16 matches, while Masandawana have 32 points.

However, Miguel Cardoso's men have played one game less than Pirates, owing to their CAF Champions League commitments.

With the encounter looming, the Sea Robbers confirmed defenders Tapelo Xoki and Thabiso Lebitso, have been ruled out as they continue to nurse their respective injuries.

“They head to their assignment against the Tshwane giants with no fresh suspension worries, while Tapelo Xoki and Thabiso Lebitso continue to recover from their respective injuries,” said Pirates on their official website.

Abdeslam Ouaddou's men eased past Marumo Gallants 3-0 in their last league outing at the Orlando Amstel Arena last Saturday.

Meanwhile, Sundowns sealed qualification to the Champions League knockout stages with a 2-0 victory over Rulani Mokwena's MC Alger at Loftus Versfeld Stadium on the same day.

Now, with both teams focused on the league, having played to a one-all draw in the first meeting in the capital in November 2025, it remains to be seen who will reign supreme in the return match.