Carling Knockout Final: Pirates star ruled out after costly yellow card against Durban City

Orlando Pirates will head into the Carling Knockout final without one of their key midfielders after Patrick Maswanganyi picked up his fourth yellow card of the season, ruling him out of the clash against Marumo Gallants at the Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane next Saturday.

The caution came during Pirates’ 2-0 win over Durban City in the Betway Premiership, a result that sent the Buccaneers three points clear at the top of the table. But for Maswanganyi, the booking was an unnecessary blow that could cost him a starting berth in what would have been one of the biggest games of his season.

Maswanganyi had been in contention to start the final, especially with Sipho Mbule likely being rested in Durban to keep him fresh for the showdown against Gallants. Instead, the midfielder will now watch from the sidelines as Pirates chase their second piece of silverware in 2025.

The suspension leaves co-coaches Abdeslam Ouaddou and his technical team with a selection headache ahead of the final. Maswanganyi has been a creative spark for Pirates this season, and his absence could open the door for Oswin Appollis or Makhaula to step into the starting XI.

Pirates will be hoping the setback does not derail their momentum as they look to cap off a strong year with another trophy.