Tshegofatso Mabasa Shines as Orlando Pirates Find Winning Formula
Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa played a pivotal role in the club’s historic fourth MTN8 triumph, despite limited game time under head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou this season. Mabasa, 28, had been the Buccaneers’ top scorer in the last two seasons but struggled for minutes at the start of the 2025/26 campaign, with Boitumelo Radiopane preferred in the opening matches.
Speaking after Pirates’ 3-0 extra-time win over Stellenbosch FC at Mbombela Stadium, Ouaddou explained the tactical approach that maximizes Mabasa’s strengths. “Don’t ask him to go to defend on the side and press. He’s not that type of player. He’s a player that needs to be served and given balls because when you give him good balls, he’s very efficient,” Ouaddou said. He added that adjustments against Stellenbosch involved using speed on the flanks to destabilize opponents and feed Mabasa in positions where he thrives.
Both Mabasa and brace-scorer Tshepang Moremi came off the bench in the second half, proving decisive in breaking down Stellenbosch’s defense. Mabasa’s goal marked his first of the season and underlined his continued importance to the team despite early-season selection challenges.
Mabasa’s agent and fans have previously highlighted his consistency under former coach Jose Riveiro, under whom he was a regular starter and led the club’s scoring charts. Ouaddou’s comments suggest that the Moroccan tactician recognizes Mabasa’s specific skill set and aims to deploy him in scenarios that allow him to be most effective.
The victory not only secured the MTN8 trophy but also demonstrated Pirates’ tactical flexibility and ability to leverage the strengths of key players. Mabasa’s performance shows that with the right service and positioning, he remains one of the club’s most potent attacking threats.
As the season progresses, Pirates will look to integrate Mabasa more consistently while maintaining the tactical balance that brought success in the MTN8 final. His experience and finishing ability could prove crucial in both domestic and continental competitions.
