Bad news for Orlando Pirates as key winger faces lengthy injury layoff

Orlando Pirates could be without influential winger Ghampani Lungu for the Carling Knockout Cup semi-final after the Zambian international suffered an ankle injury.

The 28-year-old is facing a potential spell on the sidelines that could keep him out for the remainder of November.

The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) has confirmed that Lungu could be sidelined for 14 to 21 days due to an ankle sprain. As a result, he has been withdrawn from the Chipolopolo squad for their back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Burundi.

“We also have Ghampani Lungu, who has a right ankle sprain that could take about 14-21 days,” the association said this week.

Lungu has been an excellent signing for Orlando Pirates this season, contributing four goals and one assist in the 12 matches he has played.

His potential absence would be a significant blow for the Buccaneers, who are preparing to travel to the Cape to face Stellenbosch in the Carling Knockout Cup semi-final.

With the estimated recovery period, Lungu faces a race against time to be fit for the encounter. However, his chances of featuring appear slim.

Pirates also have other concerns heading into the semi-final, with four of their players called up to the Bafana Bafana squad.

There is always a risk of injuries during international duty, and any setbacks could further weaken the Buccaneers’ squad as they look to reach their second successive cup final this season.