Tshegofatso Mabasa’s goal-scoring brilliance ignites Bafana Bafana hopes

Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa is optimistic about his chances of returning to the Bafana Bafana squad despite being overlooked recently.

The 28-year-old forward last represented the national team over a year ago during the COSAFA Cup, where he netted three goals in four appearances.

Since then, his scoring prowess has surged, as he has tallied 25 goals, more than any other striker at Pirates.

Mabasa played a crucial role in the Pirates’ recent success, contributing to their impressive 3-1 victory over Stellenbosch FC in the MTN8 Cup Final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday.

This victory marked the Pirates’ third consecutive MTN8 trophy, a testament to their dominance in the tournament.

Despite his great form, Mabasa has been left out of Hugo Broos’s squad for significant competitions, including the 2023 AFCON finals in Ivory Coast and the ongoing World Cup qualifiers.

After the MTN8 final, he expressed his determination to keep scoring and working hard, stating, “If God wants it to happen, it will happen.

“I will just continue to put the ball into the back of the net and continue to work hard at training because I know that I have the support of my teammates.”

Encouraged by his peers, Mabasa remains hopeful for a future return to the national setup.