Orlando Pirates coach on injury woes after TS Galaxy draw -'These are human beings — at some point, the body gives in'

Life after Jose Riveiro at Orlando Pirates began with a tough 1-1 draw against TS Galaxy, as Mandla Ncikazi took charge of the team. The coach admitted that the transition hasn’t been easy, especially with injuries piling up.

Ncikazi revealed that several players are struggling physically due to the demanding season. He emphasized that “these are human beings” and eventually, their bodies begin to break down. The intense fixture schedule and push for a CAF Champions League spot have taken a toll.

Despite this, the team showed character to avoid defeat and stay in the race for second place. Ncikazi also highlighted that managing squad fitness will be key in the final matches. With two games to go, Pirates must find a way to stay competitive despite the setbacks.

“Sipho Chaine, Achilles tendon very tight and he couldn’t continue,” Ncikazi said as reported by iDiski Times.

“In the morning, we lost Mbatha. Mbatha was in the team, he couldn’t be in the team.

“Makhaula an injury that you saw in the previous match [against Golden Arrows]. These are human beings and the bodies at some point will give in. But we are who we are, hence maybe let’s go for the next objective, give youngsters an opportunity in that process so that we still grow the team.

“But Sipho I think it was the tight Achilles tendon and then we were medically advised he cannot continue.”

While injuries have hurt Pirates’ rhythm, they’ve also created a window of opportunity for younger players. Mandla Ncikazi noted the need for these youngsters to grab the moment and step up. It’s a chance for the next generation to prove they belong at the highest level. With seasoned players sidelined, fresh legs could add unexpected energy to the squad. The final games will test not just depth, but the club's long-term vision and development.

Orlando Pirates now shift focus to a massive clash against SuperSport United. United sit in the opposite half of the log, but they’ll be eager to finish strong. Pirates can’t afford to slip up if they hope to clinch second place and secure continental football.