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Orlando Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has confirmed that striker Evidence Makgopa and midfielder Thalente Mbatha will return from injury in time to face arch-rivals Kaizer Chiefs.
The duo have been notable absentees in recent league and cup fixtures, prompting growing concern and speculation among supporters over their availability.
Providing an update ahead of the Betway Premiership showdown at FNB Stadium on Saturday, Ouaddou revealed that both players have recovered sufficiently and are in contention for selection.
"Makgopa has been out for nearly three weeks, but I'm very happy and the group is very happy to welcome him back. Mbatha, as well, I'm happy that he has rejoined the group after his injury."
Meanwhile, the Pirates mentor, who will be among the debutants in the Soweto Derby, has called for calm nerves at Soccer City.
"I always say that in this kind of game, there are emotions, but the emotions should not kill what's at stake. Of course, we are going to mentally prepare the team about how we want to execute the game plan, and it's very important that the players remain mentally secure to deliver their qualities."
Ouaddou also highlighted the significance of his charges working as a collective and not trying to outshine their teammates because of the magnitude of the fixture.
The 47-year-old acknowledged that the Soweto Derby is a special and unique occasion, but stressed the need to maintain a sense of normality in the team’s preparation.
"On one hand, it's normal because we are preparing for the game as usual by studying the opponent using data and analysis. On the other hand it's unusual, because it's a derby.
"Derbies are a bit spicy and you have to deal with the emotions."
