Massive boost for Chippa ahead of Pirates’ PSL date

Chippa United are set to host Orlando Pirates on Sunday in the Premier Soccer League outing that will be played at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium in Gqeberha.

The Chilli Boys, under the then-coach Sinethemba Badela, have struggled for a decent start in South African top-tier football. They have one point from the four games played which puts them at the bottom of the table.

It will even be tougher this weekend when they face the Soweto giants who have won their last two games after starting with as many losses. Chippa management decided to fire coach Badela and appoint Luc Eymael to take over, hoping he would turn the tables in favour of the team.

Initially, there were fears that Eymael's work permit would not be ready by the weekend, but that is not the case, which is a massive boost for Chippa. 

Eymael ready to make his Chippa debut

“It's true I've received my work permit, and I believe our goalkeeper will be able to play against Pirates. He participated in a small session today, and it went well. If the goalkeeper coach gives him the green light, I think he will be ready for a full training session tomorrow,” he said as quoted by KickOff.

“Ayabulela Konqobe will not be able to play because he is struggling with groin pain. Additionally, the players who are on loan from Pirates, such as Goodman Mosele, will also not be able to participate. I have to adapt to this situation. It's not a matter of whether I'm happy about it or not. It's an agreement the club made with Orlando Pirates.

“Moreover, Abdoulaye Mariko has not yet received his work permit,” Eymael concluded.