THE FUSE

Today’s Orlando Pirates news revolves around the futures of Relebohile Mofokeng and Tshegofatso Mabasa.

Orlando Pirates must make tough decisions on key players

The current buzz around Relebohile Mofokeng is understandable. The 21-year-old winger-cum playmaker bagged a hat-trick in Pirates’ 6-0 rout of TS Galaxy, and is expected to play a central role for Bafana Bafana at the World Cup in the Americas. Not a day goes by that publications aren’t speculating as to where he might be playing his club football next season. Some doomsday Pirates fans half expect Rele to turn out for Sundowns. Most Bucs fans would love to have him stay another season, and then move to Europe for a hefty fee, especially if he shines on the global stage at world football’s biggest tournament.

Pirates also need to make a tough Mabasa call

A man at the other end of the career spectrum is 29-year-old Tshegofatso Mabasa. Golden Boot winner in 2023-24, there’s no doubt about the ex-Swallows man’s goal-scoring acumen. Now on loan with Stellenbosch, Mabasa returns to Pirates at the end of June. Rumours of a move to Kaizer Chiefs refuse to go away, although it’s unclear how that might go down with fans. Mabasa has three goals in five league outings for Stellies this term.

Orlando Pirates vs Kaizer Chiefs is rescheduled

Meanwhile, Pirates will sit atop the Betway Premiership standings until the end of the international break after a 6-0 rout of TS Galaxy. Bafana attacker Relebohile Mofokeng starred with a hat-trick. 21-year-old Mofokeng’s best position has been the subject of some debate, with South African national team boss Hugo Broos earmarking him for the number 10 role. Here’s what lies ahead for title-chasing Pirates:

Tuesday, 7 April vs Golden Arrows, Orlando Stadium – 19:30
Friday, 10 April vs Richards Bay, Richards Bay Stadium – 19:30
Saturday, 18 April vs AmaZulu FC, Orlando Stadium – 15:00
Sunday, 26 April vs Kaizer Chiefs, FNB Stadium – 15:00
Tuesday, 5 May vs Stellenbosch FC, Athlone Stadium – 19:30
Saturday, 9 May vs Magesi FC, Seshego Stadium – 20:00
Saturday, 16 May vs Durban City, Orlando Stadium – 15:00
Saturday, 23 May vs Orbit College, Royal Bafokeng Stadium – 15:00