Orlando Pirates receive timely boost as Olisa Ndah and Thabiso Sesane edge closer to return

According to Soccer Laduma sources, the pair have made significant progress after spending several weeks on the sidelines. Both Ndah and Sesane are yet to feature for the Buccaneers this season due to injuries carried over from the previous campaign.

"The break helped them a lot. They were already back in light training before it, and they've continued to build up fitness," revealed a source close to the club.

"They're not far off now — it's just about managing their workload carefully."

Ndah's leadership and composure have been notably absent from the Pirates' backline, while Sesane's injury halted his promising pre-season form. Encouragingly, indications are that both players could return to action before the end of the year, although coach Abdeslam Ouddaou is said to be exercising caution.

"The technical team doesn't want any setbacks," the source added. "They want to make sure both players are 100% ready before being considered for selection."

In the meantime, the likes of Nkosinathi Sibisi, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Lebone Seema are expected to continue marshalling the defence — including in this weekend's CAF Champions League clash in Lubumbashi.

With Ndah and Sesane nearing full fitness, Pirates will be hopeful their defensive reinforcements arrive just in time to bolster the squad for a demanding campaign on both domestic and continental fronts.