THE FUSE

Orlando Pirates are desperate to win the league crown. However, there are some dangerous obstacles standing between them and glory.

Orlando Pirates face a decisive February

Pirates remain in pole position to claim their first league crown since 2012 after a Relebohile Mofokeng-inspired win over AmaZulu. However, to say the remainder of February could be make or break for their title ambitions is an understatement. Here’s what’s ahead in the month of love, including matches against defending champions Sundowns and surprise title rivals Kaizer Chiefs:

Pirates look to AmaZulu for Ndah replacement

Orlando Pirates have expressed an interest in signing the versatile 21-year-old AmaZulu defender Wandile Dube,” iDiski Times reported. He’s seen as a player who has the quality to fill the void recently left by Nigerian star Olisa Ndah and Chicago Fire and Bafana star Mbekezeli Mbokazi. Monnapule Saleng has also left the club permanently for Sundowns after a loan spell with Orbit College.

Who does Ouaddou opt for at right-back?

Orlando Pirates’ first-choice right back Thabiso Lebitso faces a spell out after picking up an injury against Marumo Gallants in December. Although the Sea Robbers have several backup options, it’s not ideal. Lebitso has been a key operator this term, clocking 1,121 minutes. Deano Van Rooyen, by comparison, has played just 309 minutes. Kamogelo Sebelebele has clocked an impressive 1,044 minutes, owing largely to his versatility on the right-hand side. However, he’s not necessarily first-choice for the fans, even though he showed his worth last season with goals in each of the MTN8 semi-final legs against Sundowns.