Orlando Pirates cannot afford to drop points in their final 10 matches of the Betway Premiership season as the title race intensifies.
The Buccaneers currently sit at the top of the table following a 2-0 victory over Richards Bay FC at the Orlando Stadium on Wednesday evening.
Last month, head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou admitted that Pirates would approach their remaining league fixtures as finals as they push for the championship.
If Pirates are to go all the way and lift the league trophy, they will need their key players to remain fit and in top form. Here are some of the players who could play a crucial role in the final stretch.
Players who can help Orlando Pirates win the league
Oswin Appollis
Oswin Appollis has been a joy to watch this season and is already being tipped as a strong contender for Player of the Season. The talented winger has scored crucial goals for Pirates and continues to cause problems for opposition defences with his pace and creativity.
Patrick Maswanganyi
Patrick Maswanganyi, affectionately known as “Tito”, has elevated his performances in the second half of the season and is among the club’s leading scorers. His impressive form recently earned him a call-up to the preliminary South Africa national soccer team squad.
Thalente Mbatha
Thalente Mbatha has proven to be one of the most influential players in the Orlando Pirates midfield. Remarkably, the team has not lost a match in which Mbatha has started. Having recently recovered from injury, he will be vital if the Buccaneers are to maintain their momentum in the title race.
Makhehlene Makhaula
Veteran midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula has quietly gone about his business in the middle of the park since returning from injury. With Sihle Ntuli sidelined, Makhaula has stepped up and slotted back into the team seamlessly, providing stability and experience.
The 36-year-old has even hinted that he could retire at the end of the season if Orlando Pirates manage to win the league title.
Players like Relebohile Mofokeng, Tshepang Moremi and Lebone Seema have also been solid this season and will look to get the Buccaneers over the line. Sipho Mbule on the other hand, has not seen game time, having suffered an injury.