‘It Was Painful’ – Nduli Speaks Out After Horror Ankle Injury
Orlando Pirates midfielder Sihle Nduli says injuries are an unfortunate part of football as he continues his recovery while supporting his teammates ahead of Saturday’s MTN8 final in Durban.
The former Stellenbosch FC midfielder was forced off in the first half after suffering an injury following a heavy challenge from AmaZulu’s Thando Ngwenya when Usuthu hosted Pirates at Kings Park Stadium in Durban in August.
The rapid progress and returning to light running at Rand Stadium this week, the 30-year-old traveled to Durban to support his teammates during the club’s official promotional activations ahead of the final at Pavillion Mall in Durban on Friday.
When Will Sihle Nduli Return to Action for Orlando Pirates?
Detailed medical evaluations confirmed a severe grade-three ankle ligament tear, initially ruling the midfielder out through December.
Although Nduli stepped up his recovery by returning to pitch work, he will not feature in Saturday’s showpiece.
“What can I say? Sustaining injuries is part of football,” said Nduli, who was alongside Zoey Monyepao, Sifiso Luthuli and Andre de Jong during the club’s activation at Pavilion Mall on Friday.
Nduli suffered another long-term injury in November last year during a Betway Premiership clash against Golden Arrows in Durban, which kept him sidelined for several months.
The setback ruled him out for the remainder of the season, although Pirates went on to win the Carling Knockout and the Betway Premiership, completing a domestic treble after having already lifted the MTN8.
Reflecting on his latest injury setback, Nduli admitted that the circumstances surrounding the incident were painful but said the support he received from his teammates and loved ones helped him remain positive.
“It was painful, especially the way I got injured. But having my teammates and everyone around me supporting me helped me understand that these things happen in football and that I needed to stay strong,” he added.
“The people close to me stood by my side and helped me remain strong during a difficult time.”
On Saturday, Pirates will be aiming to make history by winning the MTN8 for a fifth consecutive season, although they face a formidable challenge against Sundowns.
Since joining the Buccaneers at the start of last season, the KwaZulu-Natal-born midfielder has made 19 appearances across all competitions but is yet to find the back of the net.
