Patrick Maswanganyi of Orlando Pirates during the Betway Premiership 2024/25 match between Orlando Pirates and Cape Town City at Orlando Stadium, Soweto on 22 February 2025

Muzi Ntombela, Backpages

Orlando Pirates will be eager to have their influential midfielder, Patrick Maswanganyi, back in action as they take on Chippa United tomorrow evening at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

This comes after the Buccaneers suffered a setback over the weekend with a disappointing 2-0 loss to Marumo Gallants.

Maswanganyi, who was absent against Gallants, was sidelined due to an injury sustained in the match against Cape Town City at Orlando Stadium last Saturday.

The 26-year-old playmaker was stretchered off early in the second half, and while his injury is reportedly not severe, he is expected to undergo a late fitness test to assess his availability for the upcoming clash against the Chilli Boys.

The Buccaneers struggled to create scoring opportunities in their last outing, and Maswanganyi’s absence was evident as they lacked firepower in the attacking third.

Nicknamed ‘Tito’ in football circles, Maswanganyi has been a crucial player for Pirates, making 28 appearances across all competitions this season, contributing five goals and three assists.

With Pirates trailing league leaders Mamelodi Sundowns by 18 points, securing maximum points against Chippa is imperative to keep their title hopes alive.

Coach Jose Riveiro will be hoping to have Maswanganyi available, as his creativity and attacking prowess will be key to ensuring the Buccaneers return to winning ways.

A positive result is vital for Pirates as they aim to close the gap and strengthen their position in the league standings.