Mandla Ncikazi sets the tone for Pirates’ title charge

Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi has laid down the gauntlet ahead of Saturday’s high-stakes Betway Premiership clash against AmaZulu FC, insisting that the Buccaneers have the depth to overcome lingering injury concerns.

Speaking ahead of the encounter at the Orlando Amstel Arena (15:00 CAT), Ncikazi emphasised that the pursuit of the league title leaves no room for error.

“We are in that stage of the season where every point is important, every match has some significance, all teams are fighting for something,” Ncikazi said. “We just have to win the match, the points are so important for us, we will play with pride, represent the badge, and give the performance that will guarantee us a result. Not an easy match, but it has to be won.”

Addressing the squad’s readiness despite the absence of key figures, Ncikazi added: “It is clear in our team, all our players are ready, that is why the club signed so many players, whoever is not here, the other one will take over, and the beauty of it is that all players are at a level where they are ready to perform and give their best for the team.”

One more session ⚡

🎤 Assistant Coach | Mandla Ncikazi

” We are in that stage of the season where every point is important, every match has some significance- all teams are fighting for something.”

⚫⚪🔴⭐#OrlandoPirates #OnceAlways pic.twitter.com/EINmKFPDoE

— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) April 17, 2026

Pirates Injury Update Ahead of AmaZulu Tie

While the coaching staff remains confident in the squad’s depth, the medical team is still monitoring the progress of two vital players who have been out of action.

Tapelo Xoki: The defensive stalwart continues his rehabilitation process. Xoki has missed a significant portion of the campaign, and while his return is highly anticipated, he remains unavailable for the visit of Usuthu.

Sihle Nduli: Nduli is also still sidelined as he works through a long-term recovery program. His absence continues to test the midfield rotation, though Ncikazi’s comments suggest the technical team is satisfied with the available cover.

In a boost for Abdeslam Ouaddou, the Buccaneers have no suspended players for this fixture, allowing for a near-full-strength selection as they look to close the one-point gap on the log leaders following their recent 2-2 draw with Richards Bay.

The Opposition: AmaZulu FC

Usuthu arrive in Soweto occupying fourth place and aiming for a continental spot. However, they face a selection crisis of their own:

Nkosikhona Radebe: The winger is suspended following his dismissal against Siwelele.

Darren Johnson: The goalkeeper is out for the season after an injury withdrawal during their March cup clash.

Pirates currently enjoy a 12-year unbeaten streak against the KZN outfit, but a league double has eluded them for over two decades. Their last home-and-away sweep of AmaZulu came in the 2003/04 season. After Relebohile Mofokeng inspired a 2-0 win in Durban back in February, the Ghosts have a golden opportunity to finally secure that elusive double on Saturday.

The Buccaneers remain unbeaten in the league since February, a run that includes five wins and two draws, with a staggering 21 goals scored in that period.

And with 28 of their 55 points earned at home this season, Pirates will look to the storied arena to provide the foundation for what Ncikazi describes as a “must-win” encounter.