Jose Remains Silent on Saleng’s Fitness Condition

The former PSL Players’ Player of the Season had a strong start to this season, scoring five goals, generating optimism that Saleng could regain the form that assisted Pirates in their successful double-winning campaign of 2022/23 after a lackluster previous season.

Unfortunately, his progress has been hindered by injuries and other undisclosed matters, leading to his absence and leaving fans speculating about the status of their standout player this term.

However, the winger was seen training with the Pirates on Friday as they gear up to host the 12^th CAF Champions League match at Orlando Stadium.

In spite of this, Riveiro kept details under wraps:

“What I can disclose is that we are currently training with 36 players eligible for selection,” Riveiro stated.

“Fortunately, even the long-term injured players are on their way to recovery. There are precisely four players unavailable, and everyone is putting in extra effort this week to be among the 20 selected for the starting 11, which bodes well for the team.”

With Saleng sidelined, Mohau Nkota has stepped up with notable performances, including two goals against CR Belouizdad last week. Nkota’s emergence could provide a solution to the team’s attacking challenges on the left side.

Meanwhile, Al Ahly aims to end their 15-match winless streak in South Africa during the Champions League.

A victory against Pirates would represent a significant milestone for the Egyptian powerhouses, who have won the Champions League title 12 times, including twice in the last two seasons, yet have suffered considerable defeats in South Africa at the hands of Mamelodi Sundowns.