Radiopane and Appollis missing as Pirates name strong XI for African Stars test
Orlando Pirates are ready for their high stakes Caf Champions League game. But two big names won’t be there.
Abdeslam Ouaddou has named his side for Saturday afternoon’s Champions League second-round qualifier against Namibian champions African Stars.
The first leg is at the Botswana National Stadium in Gaborone, and Pirates want a win that puts them in a strong position to reach the group stage.
They arrive in good spirits after Tuesday’s 3-0 win over TS Galaxy, and Ouaddou has made only minimal changes.
Thalente Mbatha comes in for Thapelo Mokobodi in central midfield. Yanela Mbuthuma returns up front.
The surprise is who he replaces. Boitumelo Radiopane scored the opening goal against the Rockets, yet he isn’t even in the matchday squad. Oswin Appollis is also absent. Pirates haven’t said why either player is missing.
Strong team. Big stakes. And two unanswered questions before kick-off.
Pirates XI: Chaine, Sibisi, Seema, Ndaba, Sigomoshe, Selepe, Mbatha, Masilela, Moremi, Lungu, Mbuthuma
Subs: Dladla, Hotto, Zulu, Mthiyane, Dansin, Padime, Kgositsile, Mabuza, Makgopa
