Sipho Chaine returns to give Orlando Pirates a boost

Orlando Pirates have confirmed the return to full fitness of goalkeeper Sipho Chaine ahead of Saturday’s clash away to Mamelodi Sundowns.

The two Gauteng giants will battle for three points at Loftus Versfeld Stadium, and kick-off is scheduled for 20:00.

Now, in a statement published on Friday, Pirates confirmed that Chaine is available for selection after months on the sidelines with injury.

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Furthermore, Pirates said Azola Matrose is nearing his first team debut

ORLANDO PIRATES CONFIRM CHAINE’S RETURN

“Also nearing his First-Team debut for the Buccaneers is attacking midfielder Azola Matrose, who is fully fit after his spell on the sidelines, while goalkeeper Sipho Chaine is also among those back in full training following an injury layoff,” reads part of the statement.

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SIPHO CHAINE HAS BEEN OUT FOR FOUR MONTHS

Should Chaine start against Sundowns, it would be his first competitive match since 20 October 2023, meaning he has been out for four months.

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He last played when Pirates beat Cape Town Spurs 2-1 in the Carling Knockout Cup where he had to be replaced by Melusi Buthelezi.

Buthelezi had a solid start to his career at Pirates but he made some costly mistakes towards the end of the year.

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Now, it remains to be seen as to whether Jose Riveiro will start with Chaine or Buthelezi against the defending league champions.