The International FIFA Break is officially over as of last night and players will be returning to their respective clubs in preparation for the resumption of their domestic competitions. For Orlando Pirates, a total of eight players were involved in the CAF African Cup of Nations Qualifiers.
orlandopiratesfc.com looks at how they performed:
South Africa
A total of six Buccaneers were named in the squad for the back-to-back battles against the Republic of Congo. The number was reduced to five after Thalente Mbatha suffered an injury in the final of the MTN8 against Stellenbosch FC. For the first game played at a sold-out Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, South Africa emerged 5-0 victors with Relebohile Mofokeng coming off the bench in the 66th minute to replace Oswin Appolis.
For the return leg that was played in Congo, South Africa was held to a 1-all draw. Two Buccaneers were involved in this game. Patrick Maswanganyi came on in the 40th minute to replace an injured Themba Zwane and then defender Nkosinathi Sibisi came on late in the second half for Elias Mokwana.
Namibia
The ever-reliant Deon Hotto played 180 minutes over the two matches against Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, he was unable to help his national team to stop a rampant Zimbabwe who won 1-0 in Namibia and 3-1 in the return leg on Monday evening. Namibia currently occupies last place in Group J with four losses out of four matches played.
Angola
Angola, who were one of the surprise packages of the competition earlier this year, look to continue where they left off. Palancas Negras as they affectionately known have qualified for the 2025 CAF African Cup of Nations spectacle after registering two back-to-back wins over Niger (1-0 and 2-0). They currently sit atop of Group F with four wins out of four.
Deivi Miguel Vieira aka Gilberto played a bit part in both matches. A total of 13 minutes over the legs.
The Bucs medical team will assess the returnees today to ascertain their readiness to resume training with the rest of the squad.