South African giants Orlando Pirates have given an update on the health situation of midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula after he collapsed on the pitch during a Nedbank Cup match.
Orlando Pirates midfielder Makhehlene Makhaula is recuperating well after finding himself at the centre of concern for collapsing during their 4-0 victory over Hungry Lions in the Nedbank Cup last-16 encounter on Saturday night.
The incident occurred in the first half, casting a shadow over the team's dominant performance.
Despite taking a single-goal lead against the Motsepe Foundation Championship outfit in the opening half, the Buccaneers showcased their strength in the second half, netting three additional goals to secure a decisive victory over the Lions.
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However, the triumph was marred by Makhaula's sudden collapse on the pitch, which led to his substitution in added time, with Thalente Mbatha taking his place.
Orlando Pirates coach Jose Riveiro expressed the shock and concern shared by the team following the distressing incident.
"It was a shocking moment for all of us. It is one of those situations we are used to seeing on TV sometimes, but we saw it close and it was our chance to feel that feeling, and I can tell you it is not nice," said Riveiro.
Acknowledging the swift response of medical personnel, Riveiro praised their efforts in stabilizing Makhaula during the challenging moment.
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"Thanks to the doctors and technical assistants. They managed to stabilize him because it was a difficult moment from what I heard.
“What I know is he is in good hands in the hospital and under observation," Riveiro added.
While the exact cause of Makhaula's collapse remains undisclosed, Riveiro assured concerned fans that the midfielder is in a stable condition.
"The club will give you more details — what I can tell you right now, even though I didn’t have the opportunity to speak to him, is that he is OK," concluded Riveiro.
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