Orlando Pirates have received a boost for their final preparations for the CAF Champions League match this weekend.
The Buccaneers have travelled to Botswana for the first leg of their second preliminary round Champions League tie against Jwaneng Galaxy.
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After being unable to field new signing Deano van Rooyen in previous matches, due to the defender being cup-tied for the MTN8 competition, while he was not yet available for the two matches against Disciples of Madagascar in the continental competition, Bucs coach Jose Riveiro has been boosted with the 27-year-old's availability for selection for Saturday's match.
As confirmed by Pirates, the team has experienced defenders Tapelo Xoki and Bandile Shandu nearing readiness after being disrupted in their progress by injuries.
"Pirates meanwhile have welcomed seven players back to camp after their involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Jose Riveiro's options could also soon be boosted by the imminent return to action of the likes of Tapelo Xoki and Bandile Shandu, while newly signed right-back Deano van Rooyen is finally available for selection after his move from Stellenbosch," confirmed Pirates on the club's official website.
According to insiders, Bucs are likely to field a strong team, featuring the bulk of players who have been with their respective national teams during the FIFA internal break, as Riveiro aims for the team to advance to the group stages of the competition.
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Based on the team's previous performances and results, the Siya crew predicts how Bucs could line-up.
Predicted Pirates XI: Sipho Chaine, Thabiso Monyane, Olisa Ndah, Thabiso Sesane, Deon Hotto, Monnapule Saleng, Makhehleni Makhaula, Thalente Mbatha, Patrick Maswanganyi, Relebohile Mofokeng, Tshegofatso Mabasa.
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