Orlando Pirates desperately need Tshegofatso Mabasa to find his scoring form this season.
The 28-year-old striker finished last season as the league’s top scorer, netting 16 goals in 26 matches. However, this campaign has been a struggle for the former Bloemfontein Celtic star, as he has managed to score only one league goal so far.
His inability to replicate last season’s form is starting to affect the Buccaneers. In the MTN8 earlier this season, Mabasa was one of the standout players for Orlando Pirates, helping the club secure their third successive title.
With Jose Riveiro aiming to win both the Betway Premiership and CAF Champions League, having a top striker firing on all cylinders is crucial.
Evidence Makgopa has emerged as the team’s primary goal-scorer this season, tallying four league goals. However, he has yet to win over the Buccaneers‘ faithful, often missing easy chances that Mabasa would have buried if given the opportunity.
Mabasa has scored once this season for Orlando Pirates
The Buccaneers are still chasing their first league title in 12 years, but they face a daunting task against Mamelodi Sundowns, who have won seven titles in a row. For Orlando Pirates to secure victories in the league and across the continent, they need Mabasa to start scoring again. Last season, he played a vital role in helping the team finish second in the Betway Premiership.
The Sea Robbers are winless in their last three matches across all competitions. On Tuesday, they face off against Marumo Gallants in a league match at the Orlando Stadium. It remains to be seen if Orlando Pirates will prefer to start with Mabasa over Makgopa on Tuesday.
Should Bucs start with Mabasa or Makgopa
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