Latest news with #Ndah
The Citizen
2 days ago
- Sport
- The Citizen
Ndah declares he's ready for Pirates' return after injury layoff
It's been a long time out, and I had to go through a lot of rehabs,' said Ndah. Orlando Pirates defender Olisa Ndah says he is ready for the new season. Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix After recovering from his long-term injury, Orlando Pirates defender Olisa Ndah has declared his readiness for the upcoming season. Ndah spent several months sidelined with a recurring injury last season. The Nigerian centre-back missed the club's pre-season training camp in Spain. WATCH – Pirates poke fun at Chiefs over MTN8 failure However, after finally making the full recovery and starting training with the rest of the team, the Super Eagles defender says he is eager to return to competitive action for the Buccaneers. 'I'm ready to go. It's been a long time out, and I had to go through a lot of rehabs,' Ndah told eNCA. 'Honestly, it feels like I'm playing for the first time again because it's been so long. Just being able to train with the team again has been a great feeling.' With the MTN8 coming up this coming weekend, where Pirates are at home in Orlando against Polokwane City FC, Ndah admitted he missed the matchday experience during his time on the sidelines. 'I've missed the fans, the stadium atmosphere, everything. Heading into the MTN8, we know how important it is. Every competition matters, but right now, we're taking things one day at a time.' As Pirates begin their MTN8 title defence on Saturday with a quarterfinal clash against Rise and Shine, Ndah is optimistic that the Buccaneers can create another record by winning it for the fourth time on a trot. 'I don't mind winning it over and over again. The feeling never changes. This is a big club with high expectations, and this season, we're going for everything.' Meanwhile, all eyes will be on the new Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou this weekend to see if he can replicate the start of his predecessor Jose Riveiro and win the MTN8 in his first season in charge of the Buccaneers. Riveiro, who joined the Buccaneers in 2022, won the competition that same year, edging AmaZulu 1-0 in the final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Monnapule Saleng scored the only goal of the match. The Spaniard went on to win the MTN8 in 2023 and 2024. ALSO READ: Kekana backs Sundowns stars for top individual PSL awards Just like when Riveiro arrived in 2022, there's skepticism around Ouaddou's appointment as a Pirates coach, with many expressing doubts if he is a capable replacement for Riveiro, who left the Buccaneers to join Egyptian giants Al-Ahly. What better way to silence those doubters than by winning the MTN8 on the first attempt?
The South African
5 days ago
- Sport
- The South African
Sibisi? Xoki? Ndah?: Captaincy question lingers at Orlando Pirates
As the new season kicks off next weekend, questions have arisen regarding the captaincy at Orlando Pirates. Following the departure of regular captain Innocent Maela, the club has not yet announced a new official skipper. Last season, Nkosinathi Sibisi captained most matches and is a strong contender to take on the role permanently. The experienced defender has stepped up in the absence of Olisah Ndah, Tapelo Xoki, and Maela. With new coach Abdeslam Ouaddou set to lead his first official match, it remains uncertain who he will choose as captain of Orlando Pirates. Here are the options for the captaincy: 1. Olisah Ndah When fit, Ndah has proven to be a calming presence in defence and has saved the Buccaneers on several occasions. However, he hasn't played in over a year, and his fitness remains a concern. 2. Tapelo Xoki Although not a favourite among some Pirates fans, the 30-year-old has served the club with dignity over the past three years. His commanding presence and leadership on the pitch have often been praised, which is why Jose Riveiro entrusted him with the captaincy for two seasons. 3. Mbekezile Mbokazi The 19-year-old was given the captain's armband during some pre-season matches, indicating that Ouaddou may see potential leadership qualities in him. While it is unlikely he will be named the new captain, expect him to wear the armband in matches that do not feature Ndah or Sibisi. According to Soccer Laduma , Sibisi is in pole position for the Orlando Pirates captaincy. 'Sibisi is the logical choice to take over permanently, but it might not be a straightforward appointment,' a source told the publication. 'The coaches are also looking at Ndah and Xoki as part of a leadership group, and it could change depending on who's playing and available. It's a long season, and they need flexibility. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
14-07-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Five players likely to leave Orlando Pirates in the coming weeks
Orlando Pirates have enjoyed their pre-season training in Spain so far, having played two friendly matches. The Soweto giants signed nine players before heading off to Spain, but at the same time, they also offloaded six other players. With new head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou assessing his squad, there may be a few players that will not be in his plans. Here are five players who could leave Orlando Pirates soon: Zakhele Lepasa The striker hasn't played an official match for the Buccaneers since the 2023/24 season. He is one of the players likely to leave the club in the coming weeks. The signing of Yanela Mbuthuma indicates that perhaps the Sea Robbers are looking to do away with Lepasa. Thabiso Lebitso Lebitso impressed the minute he wore the Bucs jersey; however, injuries have limited his gametime. With the club having signed an extra right-back, it looks less likely that the former Chippa United star will be at the club this coming season. He is not part of the Orlando Pirates squad that is currently in Spain. Olisa Ndah The experienced Nigerian defender is also not part of the pre-season squad. Ndah has struggled to recover from the injury he sustained over a year ago. With the likes of Nkhosinathi Sibisi, Mbezkezile Mbokazi, and Thabiso Sesane taking their opportunity, it's difficult to see where Ndah will fit in. Relebohile Mofokeng Mofokeng is no doubt the best Orlando Pirates player currently. The 20-year-old is linked with a move to Europe. With Mohau Njota gone, it seems very likely that Mofokeng will follow soon. Karim Kimvuidi The Congolese winger has attracted teams from North Africa in recent months. He might leave the club having features less in the 2024/25 season. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 0211. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The South African
02-05-2025
- Sport
- The South African
Orlando Pirates are set to welcome back injured star
Orlando Pirates are set to welcome back injured star defender amid defensive crisis. The Bucs may soon receive a crucial defensive boost as Nigerian centre-back Olisa Ndah nears full recovery from injury. The news comes at a pivotal moment for the club, following their disappointing 1-0 loss to Sekhukhune United in Wednesday's Betway Premiership clash. Late in the game at Orlando Stadium, the Buccaneers suffered a major blow when Nkosinathi Sibisi was sent off in the 85th minute after picking up a second yellow card. His suspension now leaves a gap in the backline, where he had been forming a promising partnership with young talent Mbekezeli Mbokazi. With Sibisi out, head coach Jose Riveiro looks likely to call on veteran defender Tapelo Xoki to steady the ship. However, the real excitement in the Pirates' camp revolves around the potential return of Ndah, a player the team sorely missed this season. Ndah has been sidelined since earlier in the campaign with a tibia fracture. Just as he was returning to full fitness and resumed training, he suffered a fresh setback during a friendly match. The club confirmed the recurrence of his injury last month, sparking fears of another extended absence. Fortunately, an inside source has now delivered a more optimistic update on the defender's condition. 'The second injury wasn't as bad as the first one and it isn't likely to keep him out for long. There is hope that he will be back soon. He's made progress,' said the source. While Ndah's return date remains uncertain, the signs are encouraging. His comeback could prove vital in shoring up a backline that has endured constant reshuffles throughout the season. If he makes it back into the matchday squad before the end of the campaign, Pirates will gain not only experience but much-needed stability. As the Buccaneers aim to bounce back from recent setbacks, Ndah's recovery couldn't come at a better time. His return might just be the catalyst the team needs to finish the season strong. Stay tuned with The South African as Orlando Pirates are set to welcome back injured star defender. Will Ndah's return yield a positive result? Let us know by leaving a comment below or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X, and Bluesky for the latest news.
