Orlando Pirates striker Tshegofatso Mabasa has opened up on continuously missing out on the national team despite his impressive scoring record in black and white.
Mabasa, 29, was last in the squad four years ago in Hugo Broos’ early days but has struggled to crack the team since.
Recently he was named in the preliminary squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin in March and still did not make the final selection.
The 29-year-old spoke to iDiski Times senior journalist Matshelane Mamabolo in edition 229 of the newspaper, where he admitted it’s painful to be overlooked, however he draws inspiration from some of his teammates who have been able to return to the squad after lengthy absences.
“It is very painful because I generally make the preliminary squads,” Mabasa told IDiski Times.
“But I am just unfortunate never to make the cut for the final one. I still believe my chance will come, though. I am inspired by the example of Sipho Mbule, who has made it back into the squad.”
Mabasa also said he hasn’t given up on his dream of playing at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, even with the next edition just over a month away.
“It is definitely a dream,” added Mabasa.
“I grew up watching the tournament, and I have a memory of watching Benni McCarthy doing his thing, and it made me want to be a part of that one day. I am hopeful, and I know it will happen if I keep on doing my work at the club.”
“I learnt from my time at Sekhukhune to be patient and wait for my chance. I look at Evidence [Makgopa] and I realise that if you work diligently, the selectors will eventually recognise you.”
You can read Mabasa’s full interview with Mamabolo in edition 229 when you subscribe to IDiski Times media WhatsApp number for FREE.