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Lepasa had withdrawn from the squad ahead of their Tuesday clash against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.
