Orlando Pirates head coach Abdeslam Ouaddou has shed light on why top striker Tshegofatso Mabasa was missing from the squad in their Betway Premiership opener against Sekhukhune United.
The Buccaneers, without their leading goalscorer from the past two seasons, faced a tough evening at Orlando Stadium on Saturday. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, they fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat.
Fans Question Mabasa’s Omission
Mabasa’s absence sparked immediate debate among supporters and analysts, especially since it was the second consecutive match in which the 28-year-old was left out entirely.
Speaking after the match, Ouaddou clarified that Mabasa was fully fit but that the decision to exclude him was tactical.
“Mabasa is available it’s a choice we made,” Ouaddou explained. “He’s ready, and when we call on him, I believe he will deliver and give us his best.”
Younger Strikers Given a Chance
Instead, the Pirates boss opted to start 22-year-old Boitumelo Radiopane, with 23-year-old Yanela Mbuthuma coming off the bench.
Abdeslam acknowledged that questions about the decision were fair, given that the strikers who featured failed to score.
“Of course, I understand why people ask about his exclusion,” he said. “But we have a lot of players this season, and everyone will get their chance at the right moment.”
Attention Turns to Marumo Gallants Clash
With the season now underway, Pirates quickly shift focus to Tuesday’s clash against Marumo Gallants at the Dr Rantlai Petrus Stadium in Bloemfontein. Following the opening day setback, Ouaddou could be tempted to restore Mabasa to the starting lineup in search of goals and momentum.
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