The dramatic loan move of Orlando Pirates’ prolific striker Tshegofatso Mabasa to Stellenbosch FC sent shockwaves through the club’s fanbase recently. Many were left wondering about the rationale for the move, and coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has clarified the reason for Mabasa’s unexpected departure.
The 29-year-old striker, who boasts an impressive history with the Buccaneers, has been a cornerstone of the club’s forward line, netting 50 goals since joining and securing the Betway Premiership Golden Boot two seasons ago.
Mabasa’s departure is particularly striking given that he was not only the team’s leading goalscorer in the Premiership but also on the cusp of breaking the club’s all-time goal record. He was just eight goals shy of matching the legendary Benedict Vilakazi’s record of 58 goals.
Pirates coach Abdeslam Ouaddou stated that a recent change influenced the club’s playing style, which now emphasises versatility and mobility among its attacking players. Although Ouaddou did not mention Mabasa by name, his comments pointed to a broader philosophy regarding what it takes to thrive in the modern game.
“Some people believe that strikers are not just here to score; that type of football is over,” Ouaddou stated.
“The new, modern football demands efficiency with the ball. You must be mobile and play with or without the ball.
“When pressing, we must recover the ball together. And somebody who cannot do this, who maybe is lazy, cannot play at a high football level, cannot fit into my team.”
This approach emphasises a shift in the club’s tactical strategy, with strikers expected to contribute to the team’s overall play rather than simply waiting for opportunities inside the box. While fans grapple with Mabasa’s absence, Ouaddou is happy to work with his remaining strikers, such as Yanela Mbuthuma, Evidence Makgopa, and Boitumelo Radiopane.
“There is a wealth of talent at our disposal, and I can confidently say that Mbuthuma exemplifies the attributes of a modern striker,” stated Ouaddou. “What stands out about Mbuthuma, Makgopa, and Radiopane is their ability to contribute even when not in possession of the ball.
“It is not solely reliant on our defensive line. Although Mbekezeli Mbokazi, one of our top talents, has departed, the system remains robust due to the commitment of every player, with strikers serving as the first line of defence.”
After this past Saturday’s Nedbank Cup action, Pirates return to Premiership duties next week against struggling Marumo Gallants.
This fixture will provide the Buccaneers with a warm-up opportunity ahead of two blockbuster games against Mamelodi Sundowns and Kaizer Chiefs, both at FNB Stadium, later this month.
