On Wednesday, Bafana Bafana revealed why Orlando Pirates striker Zakhele Lepasa had withdrawn from the squad ahead of their Tuesday clash against Ivory Coast. The Buccaneers player had been introduced in the second half of the goalless draw against Ewsatini on Friday evening, but will now play no part in the match against the Elephants.
Team doctor Thabo Maleka explained that Lepasa is dealing with a knee injury. “Lepasa is struggling with a left knee overuse injury, which could have been exacerbated again by the recent games and also trainings,” Maleka said. “On the eve of travelling, the injury became worse and therefore necessitated that he does get some investigation to actually find the degree or severity of injury in order to inform treatment.”
The medical team at Pirates have already started the necessary treatment for the injury, and Maleka reported that the rest of the squad is in good health. “So far we have a good bill of health. Even our captain is recovering very well, so that gives the coach depth in terms of who to play and how, which is a good thing in terms of fitness levels,” he added.
