Orlando Pirates sweat over Sebelebele as Chiefs Derby looms

Orlando Pirates could receive a timely boost ahead of the Soweto Derby, with Kamogelo Sebelebele potentially returning to action in time for their highly anticipated clash against Kaizer Chiefs at the end of the month.

The 23-year-old right-back suffered an injury setback during the first half of the MTN8 final against Mamelodi Sundowns, forcing him off the pitch as the Buccaneers went on to lose the match.

Sebelebele subsequently missed Pirates’ midweek encounter against TS Galaxy and is also expected to sit out Saturday’s CAF Champions League clash against African Stars.

His absence has left Pirates monitoring his recovery, with the Soweto Derby against their bitter rivals Chiefs looming on the horizon.

The injury could also present an opportunity for new signing Bulelani Sigomoshe to stake his claim for a place in the team as head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou considers his options at right-back.

Pirates provides Sebelebele injury update

Speaking about the defender’s condition, Ouaddou confirmed that Sebelebele was still being assessed by the club’s medical department, although he remains hopeful that the injury is not serious.

“He is still being assessed by the medical department. I still hope it is not so bad. But we will have some more news, I think, soon,” the Pirates coach said.

Ouaddou also ruled the defender out of the upcoming CAF Champions League fixture against African Stars but stopped short of confirming when he could return.

“But I think for the Champions League, definitely I cannot use him, but we will see for the next games if we can have him or not. We hope it’s not so bad,” he added as per FARPost.

Pirates will be hoping for positive news from their medical team as they prepare for a demanding run of fixtures. However, Sebelebele’s availability for the Soweto Derby will depend on the progress of his recovery.

Sebelebele has become an important player for Pirates

Since joining Orlando Pirates in 2025, Sebelebele has established himself as an important member of the squad, with his pace and attacking threat making him a valuable option on the right flank.

His performances have also earned him recognition at international level, as he has represented Bafana Bafana at the FIFA World Cup.

With the Soweto Derby fast approaching, Pirates will be eager to have the defender available for the crucial encounter. For now, the Buccaneers must wait for further medical assessments before determining whether he will be fit to face Kaizer Chiefs.