Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro has explained why second-half substitute Philip Ndlondlo was subbed off after just 20 minutes against AmaZulu FC on Wednesday.
The Soweto giants were held to a goalless draw by AmaZulu in the DStv Premiership clash at the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
As Riveiro was looking to grind out a win against AmaZulu FC, one of his second-half substitutions was Ndlondlo. However, to the surprise of many, Ndlondlo was subbed off just a few minutes later.
Speaking to the media after the match, Riveiro said that Ndlondlo had suffered an eye injury.
The midfielder was hit in the face by the ball, losing vision in one eye. Ndlondlo, who went straight to the tunnel after being subbed off was replaced by Miguel Timm.
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“Philip Ndlondlo came in a crucial moment for us to give us more rhythm on the ball in the last minutes and possibilities to find medium-range shots. Philipp has good shots from a medium distance,” said Riveiro.
“But something happened. It was an action close to the line close to the AmaZulu bench. He got a knock as the ball bounced on his face.
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And he was like blind in the eye and didn’t improve after the doctor’s treatment.
So, we decided to take him out. “But we move, we try to go to the next movement and continue looking for the results. That’s it, nothing else.”
Riveiro added that he is not sure how serious the injury is, but he is hopeful that Ndlondlo will be able to return to action soon.
The 28-year-old attacker is one of the key players for the Soweto giants. He has featured in 11 games in all competitions in the 2023/24 season with a goal and two assists to his name.