Jali to travel to Egypt

Johannesburg - Andile Jali has been included in the Orlando Pirates squad for their trip to Egypt this week despite missing the MTN8 tie against Kaizer Chiefs on Saturday.

According to the supersport.com website, coach Roger de Sa has confirmed that the nuggety midfielder will be part of the traveling party for the weekend African Champions League match against Cairo giants Zamalek.

Jali received a heavy blow to the thigh when Pirates beat Zamalek 4-1 at the Orlando Stadium just over a week ago and was forced to miss Saturday’s semifinal, first leg tie against arch rivals Chiefs at FNB Stadium. His replacement in the heart of the midfield Lehlohonolo Masalesa was named man of the match.

Pirates are up against Zamalek in the return match in Group A at El Gouna on Sunday. The match kicks-off at 16:00.

Pirates leave for Egypt on Tuesday, having been advised to travel before the end of the week when violence in trouble Egypt tends to escalate. The country is embroiled in civil strife since last month’s military coup d’etat.

Pirates will be without Collins Mbesuma, whose ankle injury is more serious than already thought, and is likely to be out for several weeks.

Also missing is Thandani Ntshumaleyo, who scored on Pirates last trip to Egypt. He broke a foot in his bone and De Sa said he reckoned any comeback would take at least seven weeks for the diminutive midfielder.