Orlando Pirates could be without Ghampani Lungu for their Carling Knockout Cup semi-final against Stellenbosch after the winger suffered an ankle sprain.
The 28-year-old Zambia international has been withdrawn from the Chipolopolo squad for their back-to-back Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Burundi after the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) indicated he could be sidelined for between 14 and 21 days.
“We also have Ghampani Lungu, who has a right ankle sprain that could take about 14-21 days,” FAZ said this week.
The expected recovery period would keep Lungu out for much of November and leaves him facing a tight race to be fit for Orlando Pirates’ semi-final.
His availability for the match appears unlikely, although the final decision will depend on how he responds during his recovery.
Lungu has made a strong impact since joining Orlando Pirates this season. He has scored four goals and provided one assist in the 12 matches he has played.
That contribution has made the winger an important part of the Buccaneers’ campaign, and his absence would be a significant setback as they prepare to travel to the Cape to meet Stellenbosch.
The semi-final is not the only concern for Orlando Pirates before the fixture. Four of their players have been included in the Bafana Bafana squad for international duty, creating another potential threat to the team’s preparations.
Players returning from international matches can suffer injuries, and any further setbacks would leave the Buccaneers with additional squad problems before the cup tie.
Orlando Pirates are attempting to reach their second successive cup final this season, but Lungu’s injury and the demands placed on their other players during the international break could complicate that pursuit.
