Orlando Pirates have suffered a major setback with defender Thabiso Sesane having been ruled out for some time due to a serious injury.
Sesame missed Pirates' Betway Premiership match against Mamelodi Sundowns on the weekend as a result of the injury.
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The centre-back, who has played a key role for Pirates in the PSL and CAF Champions League, sustained a ruptured tendon early in the match against Sekhukhune United last Wednesday.
The injury has now been confirmed to require surgery, meaning the young defender could face an extended period on the sidelines.
"Sesane has been ruled out after suffering a ruptured tendon during Pirates' hard-fought 2-1 victory over Sekhukhune United in midweek. The injury, which occurred early in the match, has left the young defender in need of surgery," confirmed Pirates on the club's official website.
This is a big blow for the Buccaneers as they prepare to take on Baroka FC in the Nedbank Cup Last 16 fixture aiming to defend their trophy again this season.
Adding to Pirates' woes, midfielder Thalente Mbatha was also ruled out for the Sundowns clash after failing a late fitness test.
The Bafana Bafana international picked up a knock during the same match against Sekhukhune after a collision while attempting a shot on goal.
While scans have ruled out any fractures, as confirmed by the Buccaneers, the discomfort in his foot was enough to keep him out of the Downs fixture.
However, there is some good news for Pirates fans, as Mbatha is expected to make a swift return.
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The club's medical team has been working on his rehabilitation, and he is likely to be back in action soon.
With Sesane out for the foreseeable future and Mbatha still recovering, Pirates will need to rely on their squad depth to navigate this crucial period in their title chase.
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