Orlando Pirates defender Olisa Ndah has opened up about the challenges he has faced in securing a consistent starting position in the team's line-up this season.
Despite these hurdles, Ndah's recent return to the matchday squad contributed significantly to the Buccaneers' 2-0 victory over Chippa United in the DStv Premiership in midweek, bolstering his side's pursuit of a top two finish.
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The defender's journey this season has been marred by a mix of injuries, suspensions, and dips in form, leading to periods of absence from the squad, including missing out since the 2-1 defeat to Sekhukhune United.
Reflecting on his experiences, Ndah shared his sentiments via the Pirates media.
“It’s not been an easy journey for me, but I’m happy to be back definitely and I’m happy to be able to contribute to my team winning,” Ndah said to his club's media department.
Since joining the Soweto giants two seasons ago, the 26-year-old quickly made a name for himself with standout performances that showcased his maturity on the field. However, maintaining the high standards set in his initial campaigns has proven challenging.
This season, Ndah has participated in only 20 matches across all competitions, 16 of those in the league. Despite his personal setbacks, the Nigerian remains optimistic, especially after witnessing his team secure another win. The recent victory over Chippa United, known as the Chilli Boys, was particularly satisfying.
“I think we played wonderfully well. We created a lot of chances and took our goals so, ja, I’m really happy to be back,” he said.
“It’s not always an easy task to play a team two times in a row because we played AmaZulu (twice too). But I think the boys were prepared. I think we prepared very well. The coach got the tactics right and we executed everything perfectly well,” the defender elaborated, praising the collective effort and tactical acumen displayed.
Looking ahead, Pirates have a packed schedule as the season draws to a close, including a crucial encounter with Richards Bay on Saturday. The highlight, however, is the upcoming Nedbank Cup final against Mamelodi Sundowns on June 1, where the Buccaneers will aim to cap off their campaign with silverware again.
Ndah's resilience and determination to overcome personal challenges exemplify the spirit of Pirates as they navigate the final stretch of the season. With key matches on the horizon, the player's contributions could prove pivotal in the team's quest for success.
