Former Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa has opened up about one of the most frustrating periods of his career, revealing how a lack of game time and unanswered questions ultimately led him to accept a loan move to Stellenbosch FC.
Mabasa’s comments come shortly after Pirates confirmed his departure following the expiry of his contract, bringing an end to a six-year association between the striker and the Soweto giants.
In a statement released by the club, Pirates confirmed that both parties had mutually agreed to part ways.
“Orlando Pirates Football Club can confirm that striker Tshegofatso Mabasa will depart the Club following the conclusion of his contract.”
“The Club and the player have mutually agreed to part ways, bringing an end to a chapter that will forever remain part of Orlando Pirates history.”
Having joined the Buccaneers from Bloemfontein Celtic in 2019, Mabasa leaves as one of the club’s most prolific goalscorers, scoring 50 goals and finishing second the Buccaneers” all-time scoring charts.
“He leaves as a player who has not only worn the famous Black and White with pride, but one who has etched his name into the Club’s history books,” the club said.
While reflecting on his Pirates journey in an interview with SoccerBeat, Mabasa recalled a particularly difficult period when he found himself out of favour despite believing he was performing well.
“At the end of the day, all we want as footballers is to be on the pitch and play,” Mabasa told SoccerBeat.
“Around November and December, and especially going into January, I found myself no longer playing. If you asked anyone why, nobody seemed to have an answer or could explain what was happening.”
The uncertainty left the striker frustrated as opportunities became increasingly scarce.
“It was a difficult period for me. When Stellenbosch approached me about a loan move, I thought, ‘Why not?’ I wasn’t playing or being given an opportunity, and at my age, considering the form I was in and how I was feeling, I needed to be playing regularly.”
The move to Stellenbosch provided Mabasa with an opportunity to continue playing competitively at a time when regular minutes had become difficult to come by at Pirates.
Despite the disappointment of being sidelined, the striker insists he never doubted his ability.
“In the friendly matches I played, I was performing well. I think I scored around 15 goals in eight friendlies. Despite everything, I had to remain positive and keep believing in myself.”
His comments offer a glimpse into the challenges he experienced behind the scenes during his time at Pirates, where competition for places often proved fierce.
Although his chapter at the club has now come to an end, he departs having left a lasting mark on the club’s rich history.
In their farewell message, the Buccaneers praised the striker’s professionalism and contribution throughout his stay.
“The Club would like to thank Tshegofatso for his service, his contribution, and especially his professionalism.”
“Our best wishes to you, Sniper.”
Written by: Sandile Ndumo
