Ouaddou Optimistic About Ndah's Recovery Ahead of CAF Clash

Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou expresses happiness about Ndah's presence

Olisa Ndah has been sidelined due to injury for an extended period and has yet to feature under the guidance of coach Ouaddou this season.

The Nigerian defender last appeared in the league during the previous season’s first round, playing only two league matches and featuring in three games of the MTN8 Cup, contributing to the Buccaneers' strong performance as they secured the MTN8 title for a third consecutive time, including a goal.

Having formed a solid partnership with Thabiso Sesane in the previous season, Ndah has been further impacted by Sesane's own long-term injury that continues to keep him off the pitch this season.

Despite these challenges, Ouaddou remains optimistic about Ndah's path to full recovery.

“What I can tell you is that I’m very happy to see him in the dressing room today [Friday] and to be on the pitch as he was playing today,” Ouaddou remarked.

“Yes, for a few weeks, he was making some treatments, and this kind of player you have to be careful as a coach.”

He highlighted the importance of not taking unnecessary risks with Ndah’s health, noting that he has capable defenders in the squad, including captain Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Lebone Seema, alongside Ndah when he returns to full fitness.

“I cannot take a risk with this kind of player, so I have a lot of defenders of which I’m very happy with, the likes of captain Sibisi, Mbokazi, Seema, Ndah, and all other defenders,” he added.

“So, yes, we’re expecting him to come back because I’m sure as time goes on he will be 100% fit. But for now, I don’t think he is 100% fit, and I think he will bring his stone for the building to help us.”

The Buccaneers will face Lesotho giants Lioli at Orlando Stadium on Saturday in the second leg of the CAF Champions League first preliminary round. They will aim to capitalize on their 3-0 victory in the first leg at Toyota Stadium last Saturday, giving them a robust advantage going into the return fixture.